A recent TikTok hack suggesting the use of gasoline to kill wasps has been condemned fact-checker Marian from Verify. In a video, Marian explains that while it is possible to kill a wasp nest placing a plastic cup half-filled with gasoline near it, this method is extremely unsafe.
To support her claims, Marian spoke with Dr. Michael Raupp, an entomologist from the University of Maryland, who described the hack as foolish and dangerous. Gasoline vapor is highly flammable, and any presence of a spark or flame could result in severe consequences, including personal injury or property damage.
Moreover, gasoline can have adverse health effects when ingested, inhaled, or comes into contact with the skin. It can even lead to chemical pneumonia, which can be fatal if the gasoline enters the lungs.
Additionally, the cups used in this trend exacerbate the risks. Gasoline should only be stored and transported in approved containers, not regular plastic cups. Furthermore, disposing of gasoline is challenging, as it requires proper hazardous waste disposal.
Marian suggests a safer alternative to eliminate a wasp nest: using aerosol wasp spray, such as Raid. Although these sprays also contain toxic chemicals, their design allows for spraying the nests from a distance of up to 20 feet, eliminating the need to get close to the nest and the chemicals.
In the video, Marian shares an interesting piece of information regarding the labeling on wasp spray cans. There are two types of warnings: “caution” and “warning” or “danger.” According to the Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences, bottles labeled as “caution” contain less toxic chemicals compared to the alternatives.
The video received various responses from users, with one eco-friendly user expressing gratitude that styrofoam cups were not used. It is clear that this TikTok hack needed to be addressed and debunked, as highlighted the comments from users appreciating the informative content.
Source: Marian from Verify (@Verifythis), Dr. Michael Raupp, Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences.
