About two million people in North America are allergic to bee stings. Three percent of children who are stung will experience allergic reactions. In the most severe cases, an allergic reaction to a bee sting can cause anaphylactic shock, requiring treatment with a shot of epinephrine.
If you or any member of your family is susceptible to bee or wasp stings, you should start bee-proofing your property. Colonies begin every spring, so now is a good time to get started before it’s too late.
Wasps and bees like to nest in protected areas such as dense bushes, tree branches, fence lines, wall voids or under the eaves of a structure.
Here are a few tips to help remove nests or eliminate the threat altogether:
• Regularly inspect the perimeter of your home for nests. If you suspect the presence of bees or wasps, reach out to your local pest management professional to evaluate and remove the nest.
• Caulk any cracks or crevices around the exterior of your building.
• Avoid attractants such as brightly colored and fragrant flowers. Choosing outdoor décor with dark or neutral colours can discourage flying pests.
• Cover any food sources left outdoors, such as picnic spreads, pet food, garbage containers and compost piles. It is important that you do not try to eliminate nests on your own.
It’s also important to remember that bees and other pollinators may be protected by local or national laws.
