How to Avoid Wasps

Wasps, which include hornets, are predatory and considered to be more aggressive than bees. They mature in the spring, and begin construction of their nests. Though both wasps and bees will sting a human, bees can generally only sting once, while wasps are capable of stinging several times. This is because the stinger, or lancet, that a bee uses has larger barbs, which cannot be extracted. While there are many obvious ways to avoid wasps, such as refraining from poking or agitating a wasp nest, knowing about their behavior is important to avoid the insect.

Instructions

• 1

  Avoid wearing strong scents or dark clothing. Wasps seem to be attracted to dark clothing and strong smelling perfumes or lotions. These should be avoided if one is planning on being outside. Also, when picnicking, cover food. Wasps are attracted to sweet drinks, especially the insidesof soda cans. A plastic bottle with a screw top is better than an aluminum can.

• 2

  Remain calm if a wasp comes near you. Agitation can make wasps angry of feel provoked. If a wasp comes near or lands on you, don't become frantic and wave your arms or jump. This will only agitate a wasp further. Also, a dead wasp gives off a chemical scent that can attract more wasps. A calm demeanor will help you avoid a wasp sting.

• 3

  Monitor your house and yard. If you have nest boxes for birds, check them regularly in the spring. If you see a wasp nest forming, remove it with gloved hands in the morning. This is when the occupants are sluggish. Also, check window sills and treat them with a simple soap solution to deter wasps.

• 4

  Treat a wasp's nest promptly. If you encounter a wasp's nests, the best time to spray it is at night or at dawn. You can use a non-projectile spray, and apply it at least two or three different times. For higher nests, use a projectile spray that ranges from 15 to 20 feet.