Bee Safety: Preventing and Treating Bee Stings

Africanized honeybees have been moving northward at a rate of about 100 to 300 miles per year since the accidental release of just 26 experimental bees from a laboratory in Brazil in 1957. In this lab, researchers had been trying to mate European and African species of honeybees in the hopes of creating a hybrid that would fare better in tropical temperatures. It seemed like a good idea at the time. Unfortunately, when the two species mixed, it was discovered that the traits that cause the aggressive behavior, from a genetics standpoint, always trump the gentler traits of the European bees. Instead of creating a heat-tolerant, somewhat tame group of honeybees, these researchers had begun the proliferation of a newer, meaner honeybee hybrid. Now that hybrid is on the loose and reproducing as it slowly works its way up the United States. Should we be afraid?

In truth, these bees have been responsible for less than 20 deaths since their arrival in the southern United States in 1990. However, they are extremely defensive of their hives and may feel the need to launch a swarming attack upon someone innocently mowing the grass a half of a block away. That is the concern with these bees. The tips below should arm you with enough knowledge to help prevent you and your family from being attacked.

Preventing an attack:

Don't be afraid of bees that are in gathering mode. When they are gathering pollen and nectar, they are disinclined to bother you and will only sting if threatened.

Avoid swatting at bees. Bees will warn before they attack by swooping at your head or dive-bombing. This is your chance to make a safe exit. Quietly move away without making a scene and you are less likely to get stung.

Don't try to escape an attack by jumping into water. They will wait for you to resurface.

Most people think of trees when they think of beehives, but keep in mind that bees also live in holes in the ground, in bushes, in upper corners of buildings, in outdoor sheds and barns, hollow logs, old tires and other quiet places. Instead of looking to the trees for these bees, look instead for lots of bee activity and listen for buzzing. If you suspect a hive, watch the bees and see where they go. The dive-bombing warning signal may also be a sign of a nearby hive.

Be sure to alert others, especially children, if you think there is a hive nearby. Many states have a special number for you to call to report a hive in your neighborhood. You can call your local extension agent to find out.

Since bees are in the business of collecting nectar from flowers, many of which are bright red, yellow, orange or pink, it is a good idea not to wear these colors outdoors during bee season. Heavily perfumed lotions, sunscreens, deodorants or hairsprays may also attract bees.

If you are attacked:

1. Run! These bees may chase you for up to a quarter of a mile but shouldn't be too difficult to out-run.

2. Without blocking your vision, cover your face and head with your arms or shirt as you run.

3. Get into shelter, such as a car or house, as quickly as possible and shut the door.

4. Remove stingers by scraping away with a fingernail rather than pulling, then wash the area with soap and water.

5. Seek medical attention for multiple stings or if breathing becomes difficult.

While a swarming attack by bees would be painful at best and at worst, a medical emergency, it helps to know what to look for to prevent swarming attacks altogether. Following these safety tips and keeping an eye out for suspicious activity should help you and your family steer clear of any problems with Africanized honeybees.