For people in the ever growing range of "Killer" or "Africanized" Bees, prevention may top the list of First Aid suggestions. Killer bees have crossed into Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada and California from Mexico on their relentless journey Northward from South America where they were accidentally released into the ecosystem by researchers in Brazil in 1957. The bees made their first appearance in the United States near my home in South Texas in 1990 and in 1993 an 82 year old rancher was the first U.S. fatality when he was stung more than 40 times when he attempted to move a hive from an out building on his property.

Killer Bees closely resemble their docile native cousins so visual identification is impossible. They have the same potency in their venom but they are more easily disturbed, attack in greater numbers and pursue their victims for up to 1/4 mile. Once disturbed they stay in this agitated state and will attack almost any noise or vibration relentlessly.

DesertUSA.com makes the following recommendations regarding the avoidance of Killer Bees:

"The best safety advice is to avoid an encounter with unfriendly Africanized Bees. Be alert for danger. Remember that AHB sting to defend their colony, so be on the look out for honey bee swarms and colonies.

Be alert for bees coming in and out of an opening such as a crack in a wall, or the hole in a utility box.

Listen for the hum of an active bee colony.

Look for bees in holes in the ground, holes in trees or cacti, and in sheds.

Be extra careful when moving junk that has been lying around.

Be alert for bees that are acting strangely. Quite often bees will display some preliminary defensive behavior before going into a full-fledged attack.

When you are outdoors, in a rural area, a park or wilderness reserve, be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye out for bees the way you would watch out for snakes and other natural dangers.

Don't panic at the sight of a few bees foraging in the flowers. Bees are generally very docile as they go about their normal activities."

If you are attacked by a swarm of bees, run away as fast and as far as you can. Getting into an enclosed vehicle is preferable. Any bees on you can be dealt with once you are inside and safe from the main attack. Do NOT stop to swat at the bees who are already on you. They can only sting you once. Get away from the swarm and seek medical attention.

If someone that is with you is attacked,

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