by Michael Hodgson

Hornets, bees, wasps and yellow jackets are the bane of many an outdoorsperson. Just when you thought you were sitting down for a nice picnic lunch or a mid-hike snack, in come the buzzing squadrons. The fear of a sting motivates most to swing and swat wildly, and yet that is the worst thing that you can do.

• Avoid attracting undue attention by following a few simple guidelines. Dress in light-colored clothing. Studies have shown that black, red and blue are more attractive since bees and their other stinging cousins see in ultraviolet.
• Do not wear perfume or cologne as the sweet smell seems to attract insects of all kinds.
• When planning a picnic, keep in mind that fruit, red meat, sodas and food packed in heavy syrup are like ringing the dinner bell for hornets, yellow jackets, bees and wasps.
• Should a stinging insect make frequent fly-bys through your personal space, resist the urge to wave wildly and swat blindly. Instead, use a gentle pushing or brushing motion to deter the incursion. Wasps, bees, hornets and yellow jackets don't react kindly to quick movements.

What should you do if stung?

• Cool the sting area with a cold compress.
• If you were stung by a bee, scrape the stinger out with the edge of a knife (don't cut yourself) or your fingernail. A product called the Sawyer Extractor works very nicely here as it uses suction to remove the bee venom and stinger. Do not attempt to grab the stinger and pull it out as you will only inject more venom into skin by compressing the venom sack.
• If the pain persists, add a topical ointment such as benzocaine to the site to numb it. An over the counter antihistamine such as Benadryl will alleviate some of the swelling and itch as well.
• If the allergic reaction goes beyond mild swelling, or if there are numerous stings to the face and hands, then seek medical attention quickly. A serious allergic reaction with massive swelling is life-threatening and should be treated as such.
  

© 1999 Michael Hodgson; All Rights Reserved