As fall approaches, stinging insects get markedly more aggressive. This means that business and property owners need to be more careful than ever to prevent stinging insects from intruding into their customers’ space.
Stinging insects call a variety of locations in and around a commercial facility home, including trees, bushes, building corners, overhangs, gutters, garbage dumpsters, and under patios and decks.
þ Identify it correctly
There are many kinds of beneficial flies that closely resemble wasps and there are many kinds of “solitary” wasps (such as sand wasps) which look exactly the same as yellow jackets but that pose a much lower risk. Be sure to make a proper identification before starting a treatment.
þ Take away the source of infestation
Removing a stinging insect’s source of food, water and shelter is the first step toward preventing and eliminating these pests. Maintaining good sanitation protocols is a must. Clean up food and grease spills in outdoor dining and cooking areas, and covering food waiting to be prepared in sealed containers. Just as you would with flies, make sure to take out the trash and recycling bins frequently.
þ Use exclusion techniques
Seal exterior cracks and crevices to prevent stinging insects from entering a structure and building nests. Make sure window and door screens are in good repair.