The killer bee, otherwise known as the Africanized Honeybee, is a species of bee that defends their hives fiercely. The name "killer bee" is a bit of a misnomer because these bees are actually smaller and their stingers are less toxic than other bee species. However, killer bees can be dangerous if disturbed and will sting their targets mercilessly. If you are attacked by a swarm of killer bees, you have to run and find cover. By taking the right precautions, you're also likely to avoid getting stung.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Run
Step 1. Run until the killer bees stop chasing
The best way to save yourself from killer bees is to run as fast as you can from the swarm of bees. Run straight as fast as you can, away from the swarm of killer bees. Keep running for at least 100 meters or until the bee stops chasing.
Step 2. Protect your head and face
Use blankets, sheets, or T-shirts to protect your head and face. Position the sheets or blankets so that you can still see. If there's nothing to cover your head and face, use your hands to protect your face, and make sure your eyes can still see. African honey bees will target areas of your face and head, and the most severe injuries are usually felt in these areas.
Step 3. Find a shelter as quickly as possible
Find a place with a door that can be closed. Safe shelters include your home, car, or public restroom. Only a handful of bees will be able to follow you into the confined space. Even if a few bees manage to break through, this move will stop the entire swarm from attacking.
Step 4. Turn off the lights once you go inside
Once you go inside, the bees will be attracted by the light from the window. Turn off the lights so that the windows are the only light source in the area. From there, you can open the window and let the bees out.
Make sure the swarm of bees is no longer near the house when you open the window
Part 2 of 3: Avoiding Mistakes
Step 1. Use a credit card or ATM to remove the stinger
If you do end up being stung, remove the bee stinger as quickly as possible to prevent the venom from spreading throughout your body. To quickly remove the stinger, simply scratch the surface of your skin with the edge of a credit card, ATM, or other hard-edged object. This will remove the stinger without sinking it deeper into the skin.
Step 2. Do not kill or hit the killer bee
The more you annoy and hit the killer bees, the more ferocious they will swarm and attack you. To save yourself from killer bees, try to run faster, don't try to kill them.
Step 3. Do not plunge into the water
While the bees won't be able to sting you while you're in the water, they will swarm around where you dive and wait for you to reappear. Hiding in water is not a viable strategy for killer bees.
Step 4. Seek medical attention if you have an adverse reaction to the sting
Some people may have an allergy to venom. If you experience itching, excessive swelling, dizziness, fainting, or shortness of breath, go to the ER immediately. Allergic reactions can be life threatening.
Part 3 of 3: Preventing Attacks
Step 1. Wear light colored clothes
Killer bees have evolved to recognize dark colors in their common enemies such as bears and badgers. Therefore, light colored clothes will not threaten them.
Red looks black to killer bees so avoid wearing this color
Step 2. Do not approach or disturb the beehive
Killer bees will swarm and attack if they feel threatened. Watch for beehives so you can get a professional to remove them, but never go near them.
Step 3. Watch for killer bees that happen to be encountered
If you start to see killer bees swarming around you or several killer bees aggressively approaching you, this is a sign they are about to start stinging. If you see this behavior, run and seek cover as quickly as possible.
