May is the peak period for “swarming season” for bees.
These bees are vital to the environment but can be dangerous if one stings you.
“A swarm was in that brand and that’s when they started attacking,” said Raymond Neese, who was stung by more than 100 bees. “It was relentless.”
Witness Bill Cseay fled quickly to call 911 for Neese.
“It seemed like 1,000 bees and he was covered,” Cseay said. “The next thing I know, I was covered so I ran back to my house swatting the bees. I went inside and then I called 911.”
According to the Nueces County Emergency Services District 2, Neese is one of several people to have been stung recently.
Chief Dale Scott with ESD 2 says in just the last three weeks, there has been an increase in bee sting calls.
“All bees aren’t dangerous and we do need bees,” Scott said. “But some are aggressive. It’s a good idea to do a 360 before you mow or weed eat.”
If you come across a beehive in your front yard, experts say don’t try to take care of it by yourself. Contact a pest control company or the city’s Vector Control.
Even one sting can be fatal.
Neese says he didn’t think he would survive.
He credits the fast-acting response of his neighbor and ESD 2 for saving his life.
Neese warns, if you’re going to be outside, be aware of your surroundings.
“You can’t see them when they’re in the branches, they’re there and you can’t see them,” he said.
Vector Control says if you see clusters of bees on trees, shrubbery or various objects, contact their department at 826-4622 to take care of the issue.
