Maintaining Bug Safety in Your HOA

Summertime is filled with good things—sunshine, long days spent outdoors, frozen treats, cool drinks, poolside fun… the life goes on and on. There are, of course, a few potential downsides to all this summer revelry, such as sunburns. Another big one: Bugs. In fact, as you plan fun summer events at your HOA—whether a block party, a cookout, or simply activities at the pool—you’re going to need to account for some insects.

Most of the time, of course, bugs are little more than a nuisance. Occasionally, though, they can actually be pains, especially when they bite or sting. The question is, what do you do when you, your family member, or your neighbor winds up injured by a bug? Consider some of the following bug safety tips.

Apply medication. When a bite or a string process to be either painful or itchy, an over-the-counter medication may provide topical relief. Any product containing Benadryl will likely work. If you don’t have any handy, cortisone is great. An oatmeal bath or a dab of ammonia may also do the trick.

Avoid scratching. Yes, bug bites can really itch—but as anyone who’s had chicken pox can attest, scratching can often make things far worse.

Watch it. Remember that sometimes bites and stings can have serious but delayed symptoms, so keep an eye on the site of the injury for a few days, watching out for any evidence of redness or swelling. These could point to possible inspection, and may be worth getting checked out at a MinuteClinic or urgent care facility.

Be alert for serious symptoms. If anyone feels nauseous, weak, dizzy, or disoriented, or if they experience swollen lips or tongue, call 911 right away. Administer an Epi-pen if one is handy, and perform CPR if necessary.

Repel insects. Always use bug spray when you’re outside, spraying it on arms, legs, and feet. Also note that perfume and heavy fragrance can attract bugs. Wearing light-colored clothing may also help you keep critters at bay.

See a doctor if you experience major symptoms. If a bug bite leaves you with joint pain or fever, that’s not anything you want to take lightly. Try to get in to see your doctor as quickly as you can.

Share these tips with others in your community, and make sure to practice common-sense bug safety this summer! Visit our blog for more summer safety tips.

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Bryan Kuester

Bryan Kuester

Bryan is the CEO of Kuester Management Group. He has over 15 years of managing community associations throughout North and South Carolina.

His specialties include Community Association Management - maintenance, budgeting for operational and reserve funding, long-range planning, covenant enforcement, amenity management, onsite management, large scale management.

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