Watch Out for Wasps

Thu. August 06, 2009; Posted: 02:53 PM

Though a mild spring may have delayed the emergence of pests, warmer weather has national pest management provider Orkin PCO Services seeing an increase in stinging pests, such as wasps, as summer sets in.

While the spring impacted regions across Canada differently, Orkin PCO branches throughout the country indicate that wasps and other stinging pests are currently the most consistently active pests. This is especially the case for provinces experiencing unusually high temperatures, like Vancouver.

While insects such as wasps serve a unique and purposeful role in the environment, their painful sting can pose a danger to those enjoying the outdoors. Reactions to wasp stings, including those of yellow jackets and hornets, can cause infection at the site of the sting, difficulty breathing, headaches, fever, vomiting and anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction). These insects can even be deadly to people allergic to their venom. People experiencing these symptoms after an insect bite or sting should seek immediate medical attention.

"Bees and wasps are among the insects people will encounter during the warmer months," said Bill Melville, a 35-year pest management veteran and director of quality assurance for Orkin PCO Services. "People assume that these pests are just irritating and do not realize they can pose serious health risks."

As Canadians prepare to take their remaining summer holidays and squeeze in those last weekends at the cottage, it is important to note that wasps are at their highest numbers during the late summer and early fall. They build colonies and nests where they have access to constant food sources, and gravitate toward treats like cookies and pop, which provide sugar and protein sources.

"Pests usually are attracted to food, water and optimal temperatures," said Melville. "By understanding what attracts these pests, people can take simple steps to protect themselves."

As you prepare for outdoor activities in the warmer temperatures, the experts at Orkin PCO Services recommend the following simple tips to make homes and yards less attractive to stinging insects:

    <<
    -   Seal food tightly in containers.
    -   Cover pop cans or drink from clear cups. Yellow jackets love sugar
        and may enter cans unseen.
    -   Empty and wash garbage cans regularly.
    -   Fit screens and tighten seals properly on doors and windows.
    -   Frequently monitor for nests.
    -   Call a licensed pest control professional immediately for treatment
        and removal.
    >>

About Orkin

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin, Inc. is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America and the Middle East. With more than 400 locations, Orkin's almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/facilities management, schools and institutions. Orkin is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL). Learn more about Orkin PCO Services by visiting www.orkincanada.com.

SOURCE: Orkin PCO Services

Media Contact: Megan Jentz, Jackson Spalding, (404) 214-3578,
mjentz@jacksonspalding.com

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