Do not apply these substances to children under three years of age. If not sold with instructions for applying to skin, look up the substance online first, to see if it causes irritation or health problems.
In the United States, check the label for an EPA-approved logo before buying, so you know it is safe for human use and the environment. Spray repellents are by far the most effective type of commercial insect repellent. Candles, foggers, coils, clip-on battery-powered devices, wristbands, and electronic sound-based repellents rarely work to drive off insects.
While most honeybees do not bother humans, “Africanized” honeybees will aggressively defend their hives. These are found in many areas in Southern America, Central America, and along the southern border of the United States. If you hear a hive, or you know there are hives in the area, keep pets nearby, preferably on a leash.
Leather and furry articles of clothing may also alarm bees.
Remember that some treatments for dogs, horses, and other animals may contain strong scents as well. While one study did not find any bees attracted to perfume, the study was small and may or may not have included Africanized honey bees. [5] X Research source
Do not enter a body of water unless you have no other choice. Some bees may wait for you to come up for air, then continue stinging. Once you are safe, remove bee stingers from yourself by scraping them with your fingernail, the edge of credit card, or a similar object. Do not pull them out, as this can cause more venom to enter the wound.
Citronella candles, which are often sold as insect repellants, may be effective at driving away bees purely because of the smoke, not the citronella.
Mothballs can be dangerous to humans as well. [8] X Trustworthy Source National Pesticide Information Center Organization run by Oregon State University providing objective, science-based information about pests and pesticides Go to source Keep mothballs away from children, and avoid the strong-smelling fumes they produce.
Some people add an equal amount of tea tree oil to the rag, which may also drive away bees. This has not been scientifically tested, but may work in some cases.
If wasps are around as well, lay out both sugar and meat, as different types of wasps are attracted to these two substances. Do not use this method at a campground, since animals such as bears or skunks may be attracted by the food as well.
While pine scented cleaner may be more effective, it should only be used in water that no humans or animals drink from.
While the death of a few bees is unlikely to harm the hive, hiring an exterminator for larger-scale control is not recommended unless the hive is already established in or near your house. Bees are an important pollinating species for many plants.
Caulk or cover all holes and cracks that are at least 1/8 inches (3 millimeters) wide. Check the walls, foundation, the chimney’s attachment to the wall, and all sheds and outbuildings. Use tightly fitting screens to cover larger holes. Cover drains, vents, ill-fitting doorways or windows, and all other large holes with tight-fitting, fine mesh screens. Fill animal burrows with dirt, or cover them until the swarm has passed by.
