How to Protect Against Bee Attacks

Turn on the news during the spring and summer in Phoenix and you’re sure to here about Valley bee attacks. Just recently, six people were attacked by killer bees at an RV park in north Phoenix. One man was hospitalized and others sustained multiple stings. In a separate bee attack in 2016, a 23-year-old man died after receiving more than 1,000 stings while on a short hike in Mesa.

Tips for Avoiding Dangerous Killer Bee Attacks

As summer is creeping up on us, so is bee season. Although fatal bee attacks are extremely rare, you should still protect yourself from a dangerous encounter, especially if you are hiking or camping. There are several different ways to protect yourself and prevent against killer bee attacks.

• Wear bright, light-colored clothes. Also avoid wearing the color red, which attracts bee attacks as it is seen as a dark color, and bees interpret dark colors as predators or threats.
• If you see bees coming circling around an area, you should assume there is a hive located there and avoid the area. Never disturb or approach a hive.
• If bees start bumping into you or start swarming, you should take this as a stern warning to leave the area immediately. If bees are surrounding you, avoid swatting at them. This will only agitate them further.
• If you fear an attack is forthcoming, run away as fast as you can. Go to an enclosed area since killer bees are known to chase their victims up to a quarter mile away.
• Never jump into a body of water to escape a bee attack. Bees have been reported to hover above the water until sunset attacking their victims every time they surface for a breath of air.

Avoid Common Misconceptions About Bees

Keep in mind that some commonly known tips for keeping bees away, such as avoiding floral-scented perfumes, have no scientific basis. Other tips might be downright dangerous (such as jumping into water). Stick to the tips listed above to have a safe outing.

Use Common Sense

Luckily, avoiding dangerous killer bee attacks is pretty straightforward. You just need to use a little common sense and be aware of your surroundings. Killer bees, or Africanized bees, will always warn you if you are agitating them before they attack you. If you see bees or a hive, keep your distance.

Bees on Your Property?

Have you seen bees around your home? Before risking the possibility of bee attacks, call the professionals at Budget Brothers. We are experienced in removing bees and their hives in a way that keeps your family safe.