Stinging Insects: Bees, Wasps & Hornets

For most people a sting is painful but harmless. For people allergic to venom, a single sting can be life-threatening. Outdoor workers, such as landscapers, roofers, utility crews and tree workers, run into stinging insects often.

• Outdoor Workers
• Landscapers
• Utility Crews

Know the insects

• Honey bees are usually docile away from the hive and die after stinging; they leave a stinger.
• Wasps, yellow jackets and hornets can sting repeatedly and defend nests aggressively. Ground nests are often hit by mowers and diggers.
• Fire ants swarm and sting when a mound is disturbed.
• Nests are in trees, eaves, attics, sheds, utility boxes, meter covers and the ground.

Prevention

• Look before you reach: check under eaves, in boxes, brush piles, hollow logs and old equipment before working.
• Wear light-colored, smooth clothing, long pants, boots and gloves. Avoid scented soaps, lotions and perfume.
• Keep food and sweet drinks covered; wasps are attracted to them. Check cans before you drink.
• Do not swat at insects; move away slowly.
• Do not disturb nests. Ask for professional removal for nests near work areas, and stay away.
• Tell the crew about known nests and mark them.
• Use insect repellent for fire ants and mosquitoes on clothing; follow label directions. Repellents do little for bees and wasps.

If you are stung

1. Move away from the area. Insects release alarm chemicals that attract others.
2. Remove a honey bee stinger by scraping it with a fingernail or card; speed matters more than technique.
3. Wash the area, apply a cold pack and use over-the-counter pain relief or antihistamine cream as appropriate.
4. Watch for signs of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis): hives, swelling of the face or throat, wheezing, trouble breathing, dizziness, vomiting or fainting. Call 911 and use an epinephrine auto-injector if prescribed. See Allergic Reactions.
5. If swarmed, run away, cover your face and get indoors or into a vehicle. Don't jump in water; insects may wait.

If you are allergic

• Carry your epinephrine and tell your crew where it is and how to use it
• Wear a medical alert bracelet
• Ask your doctor about allergy testing and venom immunotherapy, which can greatly reduce risk
• Make sure your supervisor knows your allergy

Last updated: October 8, 2026