What to do if bees start attacking you?

What to do if bees start attacking you is important for safety, as bee attacks, especially from social bees defending hive, can cause multiple stings and severe allergic reactions, so quick action is needed. If bees start attacking you, 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, and do not swat or flail as this provokes more stings and spreads alarm pheromone that attracts more bees. 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 bees will eventually stop chasing when you are far from hive. Do not jump into water, as bees may hover above water waiting and you will need to come up for air, and do not stand still, as staying near hive increases stings. Once safe, remove stingers promptly by scraping with credit card or fingernail, not by squeezing with tweezers as this can inject more venom, and wash sting areas with soap and water to prevent infection and remove alarm pheromone that attracts more bees. Apply ice to reduce swelling and take antihistamine or pain reliever if needed, and monitor for signs of severe allergic reaction like difficulty breathing, swelling of face or throat, hives, dizziness, and seek emergency medical help if these occur or if you have history of allergy, as anaphylaxis requires epinephrine.