Preventing Spider Bites

Here are some tips to avoid bites from spiders.

• Brush a spider off if it gets on you. Do not crush it.
• Protect your hands and arms. Wear gloves and long sleeves if working in an area where spiders are likely to live.
• Avoid spider habitats. Look for spiders in low-lying webs in garages and sheds, in barbecue grills, around swimming pools, and in wood or rock piles.
• Clear out junk. Clear away old furniture, tires, junk, newspaper, and old clothes. This will reduce the places spiders like to live.
• Plug openings into the home.
• Check bedding before getting into bed.
• Check your clothing. Shake out and check clothing and shoes for spiders before putting them on.
• Do not leave your child's toys outside, or check toys for spiders before your child plays with them.
• Consider spraying insecticides on any high-risk areas. These include known black widow spiderwebs, outdoor openings into the home, attics, wood piles, and under eaves and window areas. Repeat treatment is usually necessary. Follow all instructions on the label. Be careful about using an insecticide in areas where people may come into contact with it.