How to Prevent Brown Recluse Spider Bites

Brown recluse spider bites have a nasty reputation as being painful, physically deforming and inevitable if you live in proximity to the spiders. While it is true that some people have terrible reactions to brown recluse spider bites, many bites are preventable. Learn ways to protect yourself from these legendary bites.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet access
• Computer

1. Conduct an Internet search to determine the physical characteristics of brown recluse spiders and to locate maps that show the areas in which they live. Note their species-specific markers and verify that your area of residence is in an identified area.

2. Buy protective clothing such as gloves, long-sleeve shirts and boots. Wear these items in areas that may appeal to brown recluse spiders, including garages, attics and even closets. Wear gloves and long-sleeve shirts especially when you are working outdoors with firewood, lumber and rocks.

3. Inspect locations favorable to brown recluse spider habitation. Attics, basements, cellars, closets and anywhere else that is left generally undisturbed and dark for extended periods can become a brown recluse spider hot spot. Brown recluse spiders have also been noted as exploring pieces of furniture.

4. Switch from cardboard box storage units to plastic containers with sealable tops. Cardboard boxes are hospitable to brown recluse spiders, as they tend to hide in the corners and underneath the flaps. They cannot, however, get into sealed plastic storage containers.

5. Clean all darkened and generally undisturbed areas of your home routinely. Immaculate areas with regular activity in them deter brown recluse spiders from setting up residence.

6. Transfer all articles from underneath your bed, especially boxes, to another place. The space underneath your bed can be a perfect spider habitat.

7. Move your bed away from walls and hanging curtains.

8. Remove bed skirts from your bedding. If you have bed skirts, be sure to shake them every night in order to discourage brown recluse spiders from crawling up and onto your bed.

9. Keep all articles of clothing, including shoes and outerwear, off the floor. Shake all articles of clothing before putting them on.

Tips & Warnings

• Although brown recluse spiders are generally found in the south central and midwestern United States, they are also known to migrate to other areas. Even if your place of residence lies outside of a known brown recluse habitat, it is not impossible for a brown recluse spider to be in your home.
• Brown recluse spiders are resilient insects. They are equipped to live outdoors but also thrive in household environments. Do not make the mistake of thinking that because you have altered your environment and cleaned superficially that possible infestations have ceased.
• Never attempt to capture a live brown recluse spider with your bare hands. Brown recluse spiders are highly venomous, and their bites may cause considerable injury.
• Brown recluse spiders are not usually aggressive. Bites are usually the result of a perceived attack or infringement on their safe spaces. Regardless, you should avoid contact with brown recluse spiders due to their poisonous venom.
• Brown recluse spider bites are initially painless, but they are not necessarily harmless. Some victims undergo severe reactions. It is important to exercise caution when accessing areas known or suspected of harboring brown recluse spiders.

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[peterpan56]

on 5/10/2008 There is a lot of helpful information in this article and even more in the tips and warnings section. Well written.
http://health-pictures.com/Brown-recluse-spider-bite.htm