NEW RIVER, Ariz. -- Bee attacks can happen any time, anywhere.
Just ask Lou Festa, who was stung more than 500 times outside his New River home last week.
"It was like someone poured a pail of hot water over my head and face and within seconds I was completely covered, " Festa said. "I was literally grabbing handfuls of bees and squeezing them and throwing them on the ground trying to pull them off my face."
The 70-year-old spent two nights in the hospital, but he knows he could have been killed.
Festa pointed out what's left of the giant hives firefighters destroyed just a few feet from his back door.
The New River man insists he had no idea the bees were there or what set them off.
Pest expert Sage Garvey explained bee attacks like the one north of Phoenix have become increasingly common across the Phoenix area and this spring is one of the worst bee seasons we've had in years.
"They're definitely dangerous," Garvey said. "Most of Arizona has Africanized bees, and Africanized bees are a little more aggressive than honey bees."
In the past week, Garvey is averaging about 100 bee calls a day, but some Valley neighborhoods are more busy bee territories than others.
Here's a look at the communities where bees are causing the most problems:
- In the Apache Junction, Mesa, Queen Creek and Chandler.
- Parts of Tempe north of US 60.
- Bees are also buzzing in parts of Scottsdale and Fountain Hills.
- In far North Phoenix towards Cave Creek and Carefree.
- There have also been bee problems around Buckeye.
Festa guaranteed he will pay closer attention to the trees and shrubs around his house, hoping to eliminate any enticing spots where bees can set up another hive.
Experts advise cleaning up any fruit that may have fallen from trees.
Also, if you see a cluster of bees there may be a hive nearby so call a pest control person immediately instead of trying to solve the problem on your own.
Another thing you can do to avoid getting stung is to stay away from heavily scented lotions and perfumes since bees are attracted to scent.
Don't wear bright flashy clothing. Bees are attracted to bright colors.
Also, if a bee comes near you, remain calm. Bees should only sting in self defense.
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