By Dr. ElRay Roper
Senior Technical Representative, Syngenta Professional Products
As winter approaches, wasps, yellow jackets and other flying insects like to overwinter inside structural voids to avoid predators and harsh weather conditions. Wasps and flying insects tend to move in the direction of warmth, which could lead them indoors where they can become a nuisance to homeowners. Here are some ways to address these stinging invaders:
• Complete a thorough inspection to determine where the insect activity is originating. Cracks around windows, doorways and false ceilings, fireplaces, air conditioning and plumbing lines and other structural gaps are often ways wasps and other flying insects can enter a home.
• Use protective clothing. Wearing heavy coveralls or a bee suit, high-sleeved canvas gloves and a helmet can help prevent you from getting stung.
• Follow the label. Use an effective, labeled insecticide to treat nests and infestations.
• Educate your customers about the potential threat of stinging insects in the fall. Most homeowners associate wasps and other stinging pests only with the spring and summer seasons.
By following these suggestions and using the proper tools, you can alleviate this threat to your customers’ homes. Your customers will be buzzing with excitement this winter — when there is nothing left buzzing in their homes.
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