Safety Tip of the Week – Insect Safety

As summer continues, you may notice a lot of insects buzzing around outside. People with an allergy to stinging insects will want to take extra precautions this time of year. Many people are at risk for a severe, potentially life- threatening allergic reaction from insect stings.

Unfortunately, most people are not even aware they are allergic to insect stings or bites until after they are experiencing a reaction. An allergic reaction occurs when the immune system overreacts to the insect venom.

Recognize Severe Allergic Reactions:

With a serious or life-threatening response to bites or stings, call 9-1-1. The reaction can progress within minutes. Any of the following may occur:

• Shock;
• Difficulty breathing;
• Swelling including lips, tongue, ears, eyelids, palms of hands, and soles of feet;
• Dizziness;
• Disorientation;
• Stomach discomfort; or
• Hives.

When You Can’t Avoid Contact with Insects or Spiders:

Learn bite or sting symptoms, knowing the difference between those that are uncomfortable and those that are dangerous.

Human reactions to stings and bites vary widely, from those who are unaffected to others having life threatening allergic reaction and who need immediate medical attention.

SAFETY SHOULD BE BY CHOICE…NOT BY CHANCE!!