The Dangerous Wasp Removal Hack That You May Want To Think Twice About

Dangerous types of wasps are found around the world. While most outdoor enthusiasts accept that the occasional encounter when adventuring is inevitable, they also probably go to great lengths to prevent these creatures from nesting in their yards and other outdoor spaces. Unfortunately, when a wasp's nest is found, the removal techniques attempted can oftentimes be just as hazardous as the wasps themselves. Case in point, the recent popularity of TikTok videos using gasoline to empty active wasp's nests. This is a dangerous wasp removal hack that you might want to think twice about — or even avoid altogether.

In one particular video, a cup partially filled with gasoline is placed over a small nest with several wasps crawling around it. Moments later, the wasps begin to drop one-by-one into the gasoline, having died from inhaling the fumes. While viewing this and other videos leaves little doubt that trapping these stinging insects in a small vat of fume-producing flammable liquid will indeed kill them, the exceedingly high danger level of this method ultimately makes the risks outweigh the rewards.

So, why is this wasp hack so particularly dangerous? For one, gasoline is highly flammable. When using this method around your house, garage, and yard, the flammable fumes that take out wasps can also affect you, especially without proper protection equipment. Plus, there is a high probability of spilling gasoline with this hack which is not only a fire hazard, but also dangerous to pets and kids. Perhaps the biggest way that gas is unintentionally spilled with this hack has to do with the incorrect containers — like light plastic or Styrofoam cups — that unsuspecting amateur exterminators might use. Another consideration is that this hack requires you to place your hand in very close proximity to active wasps. The chance of getting stung during the process is quite high.

Instead of these risks, it is better to keep wasps from getting a foothold to begin with. Avoid specific mistakes that attract wasps to your yard, like leaving trash can lids open. Similarly, sealing any cracks in your house or deck and cultivating plants that repel pests naturally can keep wasps away. You can also try hanging a fake nest to deter wasps, or use contraptions like the Spectracide Wasp, Hornet & Yellowjacket Trap. If you do spot a wasp nest, use either a commercial wasp spray or a mixture of soapy water. Either way, it is best to tackle this task in the evening hours when wasps are less active and prone to attack.