A Guide for Fire Fighters and Rescue Personnel Africanized honey
bees (AHB) are spreading in Texas. Their attacks can be a life-
threatening emergency. Fortunately, rescue personnel can help
people under attack by using (with slight modification)
equipment and materials common on fire trucks, ambulances and
hazardous materials response vehicles. This guide can also be
used to protect people from swarms of wasps and domestic honey
bees, which to the naked eye are indistinguishable from the AHB.
Conventional heavy turnout gear worn by most fire fighters
protects all areas of the body except the head and neck.
Consequently, veils are essential, but they must be adapted to
the headgear worn. Bee veils are available from beekeeping
supply houses. Mosquito veils can be obtained from military
surplus and sporting goods stores. Seal the veil at top and
bottom with string or duct tape. Tape should also be used around
the waist, wrists and ankles, and to close any other gaps.
Leather areas of turnout gear, such as glov