The incident took place on July 11 on Piaskowa Street in Osiecznica.

Akcja straży na Piaskowej w OsiecznicyAkcja straży na Piaskowej w Osiecznicy • OSP Osiecznica

At 13:15, firefighters from Osiecznica were dispatched to a local hazard involving a nest of hymenopteran insects.

As we read on gov.pl:

During spring and summer, hymenopteran insects (hornets, wasps and bees) are highly active. In accordance with the applicable procedure, Fire Service rescue units take action only when there is a threat to life or health. Due to the nature of incidents involving hymenopteran insects, even when such a threat is identified, the only appropriate action in such a situation, in accordance with the applicable rules and in the absence of additional hazards, will most often be to evacuate people from the endangered area and hand the site or facility over to its owner, recommending that measures be taken to ensure its safe use.

Under Article 61 of the Construction Law (i.e. Journal of Laws of 2006, No. 156, item 1118, as amended), facility owners are responsible for ensuring the safe use of a facility, including protection against hazards posed by insects. Proper management, maintenance and upkeep of a facility would usually prevent insects from nesting in an unsuitable location; therefore, such incidents should not be treated as emergencies. The facility owner may fulfill this obligation independently or with the assistance of specialized entities.

What should you do if you come across a nest or swarm?

  • Slowly walk away, avoiding sudden movements, to a distance of at least 20 meters, preferably to a dark place.
  • In the event of an attack, cover your head and face with your hands or clothing. Do not swat at the insects.
  • If an insect becomes tangled in your hair, do not remove it with your fingers; comb it out instead.
  • Do not irritate the insects, for example by throwing objects at them or spraying them with water or insecticides.

First aid in the event of a sting:

  • Lay the stung person in a shaded place,
  • Remove the stinger as quickly as possible using tweezers or your fingers,
  • Disinfect and cool the area of the sting,
  • It is advisable to drink a calcium preparation.