Fire and flood are the traditional threats to the hive. Blowing smoke triggers the bees impulse to stock up on honey stores in case the hive is overwhelmed by fire and must be abandoned.

With their honey sacs full of stored honey, the bee has difficulty bending its torso to insert a sting, and is more placid. A beekeeper can examine and remove frames whilst the bees are distracted.

An upturned lid is used to place frames on after removal to avoid the honey being contaminated.