Wasp Watch: Tips for Avoiding Stings in North Dakota

As North Dakota heads into late summer, wasps are buzzing around like they own the place. If you've got a nest by your front door like I do, you know how nerve-wracking it can be. Just last month, a British man disturbed a wasp nest, got stung 160 times, and nearly died from the stings. Let's avoid that nightmare by following some smart tips from the British Pest Control Association on what not to do when dealing with wasps.

• Wasps only sting when they're threatened, so don't threaten them. They also emit a pheromone when threatened, which signals other wasps to join the fight.
• If a wasp attacks, try not to wave your arms around or swat at it because that will cause it to defend itself.
• Do not jump into a pool and go underwater to evade them, because they will just wait for you to emerge.
• Wasps do not die after they sting, so they can continue stinging many more times
• If you are stung, pull out the stinger and wash the area with soap and water.

Now, if you're looking for a way to tackle those pesky insects, call a local pest control company or here’s a DIY remedy that a friend of mine swears by:

• Grab an empty margarine container
• Add ½ cup of apple cider vinegar
• Mix in ½ cup of sugar and ½ cup of water
• Add 2-3 drops of dish detergent

Empty it daily, and you’ll be amazed at how effective it is. In just five days, they filled five containers!

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So, stay safe out there, North Dakota, and let’s keep those wasps in check!