If you keep bees you will get stung. There are many things you can do so that you do not get stung very much, but it will happen. Honeybees sting to defend the colony, not to protect themselves. They die after they sting. Field bees that you may see on flowers will not sting because they are not at their hive. Usually honeybees will only sting to protect their hive. You may get stung accidentally if you pinch a bee, or one gets caught in your hair.

The following are some things you can do to keep from getting stung, and some things you should not do or you will get stung.

1. Do wear protective clothing (long sleeve shirt and trousers, boots, or shoes and socks, with trouser legs tucked into socks, gloves, and a veil).
2. If you choose to not wear a veil, do wear a hat so the bees will not get caught in your hair.
3. Do use a smoker. Smoke bees with a thick cool smoke before you work with them.
4. Do use a hive tool to open your hive and loosen and remove frames. Using a hive tool will make it easier to inspect your hive. It will prevent you from breaking or damaging frames and smashing bees.
5. Do move slowly, gently, and carefully.
6. Do work with your bees in the morning when the weather is clear or fine (sunny).
7. Do stand at the side or behind your hive when you work with them.
8. Do use a hive blanket.
9. Do close your hive and walk away if the bees become cross.
10. Do check your hives often (once every week or two).
11. Do re-queen your hive (to be discussed in topic 14) if it is always cross.
    

1. Do Not be in a hurry.
2. Do Not be rough, loud, or careless.
3. Do Not smash bees.
4. Do Not use hot smoke.
5. Do Not stand in front of your hive.
6. Do Not drink alcohol or wear perfume when you work with your bees.
7. Do Not work with your bees late in the day
8. Do Not work with your bees when it is cloudy, rainy, or when thunderstorms are near.
9. Do Not let livestock or other pests bother your hives.
10. Do Not ignore your hives.