At best, fire ant bites can be a little uncomfortable. In fact, their painful bites live up to their name. Worse, they can even cause adverse allergic reactions. They're also difficult to avoid: Florida's warm, humid climate produces ideal conditions for the red imported fire ant to thrive. Fire ants and their nests pop up even more during the spring and summer. With these factors in mind, keeping these dangerous pests out of your yard should be a top priority. These are the steps you can take to protect your family from fire ants this spring.

Fire Ants in Your Yard: Where You're Likely to Find Them

Fire ants are known to build very large nests: some of their colonies can have over 200,000 workers. These nests protrude from the ground as grey, brown, or clay-colored mounds that look like a patch of disturbed soil. The size and shape of these mounds varies depending on the size of the fire ant colony. They may also have satellite mounds dozens of feet apart from each other. These can pop up nearly anywhere on your grass and are usually obvious. However, sometimes, fire ant nests are not as apparent. They may also build nests:

• In dead or rotting wood
• Around the base of trees or stumps
• Inside of homes
• Under pavement or concrete
• Inside utility entrances or electrical equipment, including AC units

It's important to inspect these areas regularly and take caution while doing so. If fire ants sense their nest is being disturbed, they will attack very quickly.

 Fire Ants as a Health Hazard for Your Family 

Fire ants are extremely aggressive. You do not have to be on or right next to their nest for them to attack you. In fact, a fire ant can deliver multiple venom-filled bites-- and are usually not alone.  Fire ant bites are usually swollen, red pus-filled blisters that are tender to the touch. They last between 3 to 8 days and may scab over. While these tend to be incredibly uncomfortable, some individuals may experience an allergic reaction. In particular, children are more susceptible to them. Those who are allergic to fire ant venom may experience:

• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling in the face, mouth, and/or throat
• Hives
• Rapid heart rate
• Vomiting
• Chest tightness
• Low blood pressure

If any of these symptoms are present, it's important to seek immediate medical attention, as they may be life-threatening.

Preventing Fire Ant Bites

Taking preventative measures can help reduce your chance of getting fire ant bites. Some of the most effective tactics include:

• Avoiding fire ant nests and taking caution when mowing or working in the yard
• Wearing shoes and socks outdoors
• Wearing gloves when gardening
• Keeping your skin covered
• Avoiding woody areas

Managing Fire Ant Infestations with Turner

Having a fire ant infestation isn't worth the risk. With a rapidly growing colony that could have hundreds of thousands of ants, immediate action is needed. Thankfully, Turner Pest Control's experts are trained to knock out fire ants quickly and effectively. We'll do a thorough inspection of your property to determine the extent of infestation and give you a customized estimate. Once we deliver treatment, existing ants will die off and will no longer reproduce in your yard. We want you to be able to enjoy the outdoors as much as we do!

Protect your family from fire ants this spring and get peace of mind. Call us at 800-225-5305 or fill out our free inspection form today.