[Arid_gardener] Keri - Sand box insects...

[Genie]

Dear Keri,  (love your screen name!)  :-D

Did you actually see any of the insects? 

If not, they are probably small, red ants - which can sometimes leave 
tiny marks on the skin. 
Personally, I would use a strong soap/detergent solution -- thoroughly 
drenching the sand -- to murder
them.  Some folks have luck with vinegar.  Ants are active around 6 AM 
and again around 6 PM for
confirmation.  After drenching (and hopefully killing them), consider 
spraying the outside perimeter of
the sandbox with your favorite "safe" insecticide.  Read up on 
Pyrethrums.... which are derived from the 
Chrysanthemum flower.  Cyfluthrin  (Tempo) is a terrific choice -- and 
considered so safe, it is used in
school cafeterias, nursing homes, etc..

NOT TO SCARE YOU, KERI -- but if this happens frequently, ask their 
pediatrician... if repeated exposure to
ant venom is serious (based upon their age) and ask the doctor if 
keeping chewable diphenhydramine
(Benadryl) handy is advisable.

Good Luck, Kiddo!
Genie       
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