The bulk of the colony dies in the winter with just a few hibernating to come out next spring and rebuild their colony and nest. This is why it can be hard to find the nests in early spring. As the season progresses the nests grow in size and population, making them easier to find but also more dangerous to deal with. It is not uncommon for us to remove large nests from walls and ceilings after bees have broken through the sheetrock into the house. They are territorial, attacking if you approach their nests, they will sting with little provocation, and are capable of stinging numerous times.
Bees are very calm by comparison.
Honey bees will die if they sting, so they definitely need a good reason to do so. About 30 deaths from wasp and bee stings are reported each year, more are likely attributed to heat stroke or heart attack. Car accidents have been caused by wasps. Many a ground nest has been found by the unsuspecting lawn mower. If you do get stung, the natural tendency is to grab at the stinger and try to yank it out.