Seal cracks and crevices: Seal all visible cracks and crevices to keep stingers from moving indoors, and regularly inspect around the house’s perimeter for nests.
Keep food covered: During a picnic or cookout, cover all food when outside and be sure to keep tight fitting lids on trash bins.
Drink out of clear containers: Stinging insects can sneak into cans unnoticed, so it’s important to be able to see that a liquid is pest-free when drinking it.
Avoid excessive use of fragrances: If spending long periods of time outdoors, skip the perfume or cologne, as yellowjackets and other stinging insects are attracted to sweet-smelling fragrances. When possible, choose unscented shampoos, soaps, lotions and sunscreen.
Adjust wardrobe: Avoid wearing dark colors and floral prints, as these patterns can attract stinging insects. Wear closed-toe shoes, especially in grassy areas where hornets and other pests often nest.
Remain calm, cool and collected: Do not swat at stingers or flail in a panic—these movements may actually provoke an attack. Instead, remain calm and slowly walk away from the area. The insect should fly away without causing any harm.