Summer is a season that most people look forward to all year long. The warm weather, longer days, and the opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities make it a favorite time of the year. However, summer also brings an unwelcome guest in the form of wasps. These flying pests can quickly turn a fun-filled BBQ or picnic into a nightmare if you’re not careful. In this article, we will discuss some tips and tricks to help you avoid wasp stings and enjoy your summer without any interruptions, but before we dive into that, let’s take a quick look at what wasps are and the dangers of wasps. 

What are Wasps? 

Wasps are flying insects that belong to the Hymenoptera order, which also includes bees and ants. They come in various colors and sizes, with some species measuring up to 2 inches in length. Unlike bees, wasps have smooth bodies, and their stingers are not barbed, allowing them to sting multiple times. 

There are many species of wasps, but the most common types you are likely to encounter during summer are paper wasps and yellow jackets. Paper wasps are black or brown with yellow markings and build nests made of paper-like material. Yellow jackets, on the other hand, are black and yellow and build nests in the ground or in other protected areas. 

Dangers of Wasps 

While wasps serve an essential role in the ecosystem by controlling other insect populations, they can be dangerous to humans, especially if provoked. Wasps will typically sting when they feel threatened or if their nest is disturbed, and their stings can be painful and, in some cases, life-threatening. 

For people who are allergic to wasp stings, a single sting can cause a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. Symptoms of anaphylaxis can include: 

• Difficulty breathing.
• Swelling of the face or throat.
• A rapid drop in blood pressure.

In such cases, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately.