The Swift Life

Bee Stings and Bug Bites: How to Protect Yourself

With summer in full swing, we thought it would be beneficial to touch on bee stings and bug bites; two big risks that are involved with flowers blooming and the sun shining bright. Even if you do not have an allergy, stings and can be a nuisance. Here are some ways to prevent this damper on your day:

  • Be careful when drinking sweet drinks, bees love that, and can very easily find their way into your cup.
  • Keep food covered.
  • Wear close-toed shoes when possible.
  • Try to avoid bright clothing and floral prints, as they will attract bees.
  • If bees are flying around you, keep calm and don’t try to swat them away.

If you do happen to get stung, make sure to ice the area and use a calming lotion like calamine. If you know you have an allergy, make sure to take Benadryl right away and if it’s a serious allergy, use your Epi-pen. Consult a doctor right away.

Now, mosquitos can be a different story. If you find yourself outside in an area with plenty of this nasty little buggers here are a few essentials tips to follow:

  • Wear light coloured clothing, as mosquitos are attracted to heat.
  • Have deodorant on hand mosquitos are attracted to sweat.
  • Use insect repellent but remember that DEET can be harmful to children and skin, try natural repellents instead!
  • Keep baking soda on hand to relieve the itch in bites.

There are a few quick fixes for when you do get bites. Personally, my favourite is putting an X through it with my fingernails. That helps the best for the itch. As mentioned before if you have baking soda on hand, make a little paste and put that on the bites. Any soothing lotions will help as well. Aloe Vera gel and ice have also been used a lot through past experiences.

If you have any other suggestions please feel free to comment below!

– K

Add comment

Follow us

Don't be shy, get in touch. We love meeting interesting people and making new friends.