How to Keep Wasps and Yellow Jackets Away from Your BBQ
There’s nothing like a summer BBQ in Pennsylvania. The smell of burgers on the grill, kids running through sprinklers, and cool drinks shared with friends. But right around the time the food hits the table, the uninvited guests start to show up: wasps and yellow jackets.
These aggressive stingers can quickly turn a fun afternoon into a mad dash for cover. For anyone allergic, even a single sting can become a serious health issue. At DeAngelo Pest Control, we hear from a lot of customers in July dealing with backyard invasions, so we’re sharing some tried-and-true tips to keep wasps and yellow jackets from ruining your summer cookouts.
Why They’re So Active Right Now
By mid-summer, yellow jackets and wasps are out in full force. Their colonies have matured, and they’re constantly foraging (especially for sugary drinks, meat, and protein). In other words, your BBQ buffet is exactly what they’re looking for. Add in open trash cans, sticky spills, and uncovered sweets, and your backyard quickly becomes prime territory for a swarm.
How to Keep Them Away
Here’s what you can do to keep your cookout comfortable, and sting-free.
1. Keep food and drinks covered.
Don’t leave food sitting out uncovered, especially meats and anything sweet. Use foil, lids, or mesh food covers, and keep drinks in closed containers or coolers.
2. Empty the trash often, and keep it sealed.
Yellow jackets are scavengers. If your trash can is overflowing or doesn’t have a tight lid, they’ll find it. Keep your garbage cans away from the dining area and empty them before and after your gathering.
3. Ditch the floral prints and perfume.
Yes, it’s summer, but try to avoid brightly colored clothing or floral patterns, which can attract curious wasps. Perfumes and scented lotions can do the same.
4. Keep the sweet stuff in check.
Wasps love sugar. If you’re serving soda, sweet tea, or dessert, be sure it’s not left out too long. Wipe down surfaces and rinse out cans or bottles before tossing them.
5. Clean up quickly.
Once the meal is over, don’t let dishes or leftovers linger. Wipe down tables and rinse off sticky spots to avoid drawing in pests.
6. Set up wasp traps strategically.
Wasp traps can be effective, but don’t hang them near the food. Place them at the edges of your yard to draw pests away from the party, not toward it.
7. Use natural deterrents.
Certain scents, like peppermint oil, eucalyptus, or cloves, can help repel wasps. Some homeowners swear by placing bowls of sliced cucumber or natural oils around patios and picnic tables. It’s not foolproof, but it can help.
8. Scan for nests.
Before you host a gathering, take a few minutes to check under the deck, around the eaves, and in bushes for any signs of nests. If you see one, don’t try to remove it yourself (especially if it’s active). That’s where professionals come in.
When It’s Time to Call in the Pros
Spotting a few wasps during a cookout isn’t unusual. But if you’re seeing a steady stream of them, or worse, spotting a nest, it’s time to call DeAngelo Pest Control. We safely remove active nests and treat your property to prevent future infestations.
Trying to take down a nest with spray or a broom rarely goes well. Wasps can be aggressive when threatened, and multiple stings aren’t just painful – they can be dangerous.
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