SALT LAKE COUNTY, UTAH — A semi-truck carrying roughly 25 million honeybees broke down in Parley’s Canyon on Tuesday, prompting firefighters to help keep the bees alive while mechanics worked on the rig.
Unified Fire Authority said the truck was hauling about 480 beehives when it stopped in the canyon due to mechanical issues.
Firefighters Helped Keep Bees Cool
Firefighters from Millcreek and Unified Fire Authority responded to the scene. While mechanics worked to get the semi-truck running again, fire crews used a hose to mist the trailer.
Officials said the goal was to keep the bees “cool, calm, and safe in the heat.”
Each hive contained an estimated 40,000 to 60,000 bees, according to UFA.
Heat Created Risk for the Load
Officials said the bees could have died if the truck remained parked in the sun too long during the unseasonably hot weather.
UFA said the bees normally benefit from cooler airflow while the truck moves along the highway, but that cooling effect was lost once the rig broke down.
No firefighters were stung during the operation.
“Honestly, one of the coolest reminders that first responders don’t just save people,” Unified Fire said. “Sometimes, they save 25 million bees too.”
No further information was released.
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