Should you jump in water if being chased by bees?

No, you should not jump in water if being chased by bees, as this is common myth that can be dangerous, because bees will hover above water waiting for you to come up for air, and you will need to breathe, and while you are in water you are vulnerable and cannot run away, increasing risk of more stings when you surface. Bees defend hive and chase intruders for 50 to 100 meters, and they can hover above water for long time, and some bees may even land on water surface. Jumping into water does not cause bees to lose interest, as they release alarm pheromones that attract other bees and they will wait. Better strategy if being chased by bees is to run away quickly in straight line away from hive or nest, as bees defend area around hive and will stop chasing once you are far enough, typically 50 to 100 meters, cover face and eyes with hands or shirt as bees may target face, and seek shelter indoors, in car, or in dense vegetation if possible, as enclosed space provides protection. Do not swat or flail as this provokes more stings and spreads alarm pheromone. Once safe, remove stingers promptly by scraping, wash sting areas to remove alarm pheromone that attracts more bees, apply ice to reduce swelling, and monitor for allergic reaction like difficulty breathing or swelling of face, seeking emergency help if needed. So do not jump in water, run away and seek shelter indoors.