What to do If You’re Attacked by Wasps

In plenty of recent posts, we’ve discussed how important it is to rely on the experts for proper wasp nest removal. One wrong move could land you in the emergency room with wasp stings all over your body. While wasps only sting when they feel their nest and their queen are threatened, the aftermath could be potentially deadly. Here is what to do if you find yourself on the receiving end of a wasp attack. Remember, contacting the pros to remove the nuisance nest can prevent you from this harrowing experience altogether.

Remain calm.

This is easier said than done, but the first and most important tip is to remain calm. If you start panicking and swatting at them in an attempt to deter the wasps, this will only make them more angry and, thus, more aggressive. It’s important to know that swatting a wasp can trigger a pheromone that attracts other wasps to come to its rescue. Therefore, remain calm, and do your best to slowly walk away from the nest. If they’re pursuing you, experts say that it’s okay to start running, just don’t swat at them.

Protect your face.

If you’re familiar with the area and trust that you won’t trip and fall, pull your shirt up over your head to protect your face temporarily. Once you’re no longer seen as a threat, they will stop pursuing you and you can remove the shirt or covering from your face and head.

Avoid water.

As we’ve discussed in previous articles, wasps will wait for you to emerge for air to continue stinging you if you attempt to find reprieve underwater. Instead, run away on land and get as far away from the nest as possible.

Go indoors.

Going inside is the only sure way to get rid of wasps. Seek shelter in a building, a house, or anywhere else they cannot easily enter.

Treat your stings.

According to BBC News, the following remedies are recommended for treating wasp stings:

If you are stung you should pull out any stings left in the skin and wash the area with soap and water, according to NHS advice.

Doctors recommend applying ice or a cold flannel to the site for 10 minutes and elevating the area to reduce swelling.

You can also take over-the-counter remedies such as antihistamines and painkillers.

Seek medical attention.

One sting isn’t particularly dangerous. However, venom from multiple stings can have detrimental effects on your body. If you start to experience any of the following symptoms, seek professional medical help right away:

• Shortness of breath
• Swollen face, neck, or throat
• Wheezing
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Increased heart rate

Contact a knowledgeable pest removal company.

Don’t let wasps bug you, contact us for wasp control and wasp nest removal in Vancouver, Burnaby, Coquitlam, Pitt Meadows, and Maple Ridge. Avon Pest Control has a team of wasp exterminators who serve Surrey, Delta, White Rock, Langley, and all of Metro Vancouver. Call us today at 604-805-0278 and get rid of wasps in your property – residential or commercial!