It happened. Your child was enjoying a perfectly normal day of fun outside. Your child suddenly cries out in pain – she’s been stung. Redness develops at the site of the sting, and it starts to swell. She is having an allergic reaction.

The body’s response to a bee sting can vary from mild to severe.  The most dangerous response can include difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat and tongue, or even loss of consciousness. How do you protect your child from having this experience?

Make your outdoor environment as safe as possible. In this instance, that means exercise caution when drinking sweet beverages outside. Bees are attracted to the sweetness and can crawl in straws or cans. Also, make sure trash cans are tightly covered, and pick up fallen food. Both can attract bugs and bees.

Pay attention to your outdoor attire. Open-toed shoes and excessive loose clothing can provide places for bees to hide. Bright colors and floral prints attract bees, so that is also something to consider.

One final preventive tip – if you find a bee’s nest or hive near your house, have a professional come take care of it. The last thing you want to do is anger its inhabitants and cause them to attack.