A NATIONAL trade body has warned residents of a wasp explosion as temperatures rise this summer.

The British Pest Control Association (BPCA) is urging householders and businesses in Bournemouth to take steps to avoid getting stung this summer as worker wasps abandon their nests.

BPCA technical head Dee Ward-Thompson said: “A wasp nest will be home to around 5,000 wasps during the peak activity of late summer, but when the queen stops producing eggs, the worker wasps have nothing to do other than look for fermented fruits and sugars, and can become inebriated quite quickly.

“Drunken wasps may become more aggressive – and more likely to sting, which is when people enjoying the summer sun nearby could be in harm’s way.”

A wasp sting is likely to cause pain, redness and swelling. But a small percentage can cause anaphylaxis – an allergic reaction that can be fatal.

Dee added: “If you scare a wasp, it might call for backup. While being stung by one wasp isn’t usually dangerous, multiple stings could kill you.

“Never attempt to deal with a wasps’ nest if you think you might be allergic to stings.

“Not every wasp nest needs to be destroyed. They will abandon the nest in the autumn, so if it is in a low-traffic area, it may be best to leave it alone as wasps are accidental pollinators and also feed on small flies and aphids.”

BPCA has produced an online guide with accompanying video, to help people understand the risks posed by wasps and when to seek help from a pest professional.

This can be found by searching: 'Pest advice for controlling wasps' at bpca.org.uk.