The great outdoors are full of adventure, natural beauty and, yes, even pests. If you and your family enjoy spending time outside, pests could prove to be a significant problem. With a little knowhow and the right approach, you will be glad to know that you can beat the bugs at their own game.
One of the most familiar outdoor pests is a bee, which is a stinging insect. Although they may be attracted to flowers, there’s nothing sweet about them. In addition to being bothersome and painful, bee stings can also cause an allergic reaction in some individuals. If you want to protect yourself and your family from being stung, choose the color of your clothing carefully keeping in mind that bees are attracted to colors that imitate a flower. Additionally, you may wish to avoid wearing perfume and/or body lotion that may attract a bee.
Speaking of flying pests, mosquitoes are a real problem for many who enjoy the outdoors. They not only cause itchy red bumps, but they can also transmit diseases. One of the best ways to protect yourself and those that you love from a mosquito bite is to wear a long-sleeved shirt and pants when outdoors. The more of your skin that’s exposed, the better chance you will have of getting bitten.
Not all outdoor pests fly, however, which is proven with the presence of spiders. These eight-legged pests can cause a painful, itchy bite or even a reaction that requires medical attention. If you want to protect yourself, always look before you touch and remember to tuck your pants into your socks while outdoors. Speaking of which, the latter is also a good way to protect yourself from ticks, which can also be painful and/or carry a risk of illness.
It’s important to remember that the aforementioned information is not restricted to individuals who spend a significant amount of time outdoors. In fact, anyone who gardens, walks their dog or simply likes to enjoy fresh air is at risk of coming into contact with one or more outdoor pests. But, the proper knowledge will go a long way in making your family’s outdoor adventure a breeze.
The information contained in this article is designed to be used for reference purposes only. It should not be used as, in place of or in conjunction with professional medical or emergency advice relating to outdoor pests. For more information or for assistance with an insect bite or sting, consult a physician for a diagnosis and/or treatment.
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