DENVER, Colo. – As the weather and seasons change so do the types of calls to the Nebraska Regional Poison Center. During the summer months poison centers manage more calls about bites, stings, plants and pesticides than they do at other times of the year.
As the weather warms up so do the calls on bites and stings.  The bee population has started to increase and will be at its peak until the first freeze.  If you are stung- call the poison center.  Close observation for allergic reaction is important, especially in the first hour after a sting.  
Only use insect repellents that are meant to be used on skin. DEET- containing insecticides should be applied sparingly to exposed skin and clothing.  Lower concentrations of less than 10% DEET have been found to be just as effective as higher concentrations. It is recommended to wash off the product once returning indoors.  

Days are longer and children are out of school spending more time outdoors where they can be exposed to poisons. Hydrocarbons found in gasoline, kerosene, lighter fluids and torch fuels, are among the top 10 causes of childhood poisoning deaths in the United States. Be sure to store these up and out of reach after use.
When firing up the grill or heading to a picnic, it’s important to take some precautions. Remember to keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold. The USDA recommends fully cooking all meats to ensure bacteria are destroyed to prevent food poisoning. Meats should be cooked to 160 degrees.  Always use a food thermometer as you can’t tell if meat is fully cooked by looking at it.
Fireworks contain a number of toxic chemicals and can be dangerous if swallowed.  Glow sticks are a very common call to the poison center and generally result in only minimal irritation. If an eye exposure occurs the poison center nurses can assist with instructions and follow-up care.
Summer is the busiest time of the year for the poison center and nurses are always available to answer your questions at 1-800-
222-1222.