Gyeonggi Fire Department: 8 in 10 Bee Stings and 6 in 10 Snake Bites Occur from July to September

The Gyeonggi Province Fire and Disaster Headquarters has urged the public to exercise extra caution against bee stings and snake bites, anticipating increased outdoor activities such as grave mowing and ancestral visits ahead of the Chuseok holiday.

According to statistics from emergency activity reports by the Gyeonggi Province Fire and Disaster Headquarters, over the past three years (2023–2025), there were 4,053 cases of bee stings and 457 cases of snake bites in the province.

In particular, these incidents were concentrated between July and September, when outdoor activities such as grave mowing and ancestral visits are most frequent. During this period, 3,129 bee sting cases accounted for 77.2% of the total, while 265 snake bite cases represented 58.0%. To be specific, roughly 8 out of 10 bee sting incidents and nearly 6 out of 10 snake bite incidents occurred during these three months.

Poster "How to Handle Safety Accidents During Ancestral Grave Visits," produced by Gyeonggi-do Fire and Disaster Headquarters

To prevent bee stings, the authorities recommend refraining from using strongly scented products such as perfumes, and wearing long, light-colored clothing. If a beehive is found, it is advised not to disturb it and to keep a safe distance. If symptoms such as difficulty breathing or dizziness occur after being stung, one should immediately report to 119 emergency services.

To prevent snake bites, the public should wear long pants and shoes that cover the ankles, and proceed with caution in areas with dense grass. If a snake is encountered, do not attempt to catch or threaten it, and keep a safe distance. If bitten, it is important to report to 119 and minimize movement as much as possible. Cutting the wound or attempting to suck out the venom by mouth must be strictly avoided.

Hong Jangpyo, Commissioner of the Gyeonggi Province Fire and Disaster Headquarters, stated, "Chuseok is a holiday for joyful family reunions, but encounters with bees or snakes on the way to mow graves or pay respects are precisely the 'wrong kinds of meetings' one should avoid." He added, "If you discover a beehive or a snake, do not approach recklessly, and follow basic safety precautions so that your entire family can have a safe and peaceful Chuseok."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.