While some scorpions are merely a nuisance, others, like the Arizona Bark Scorpion can deliver a truly nasty and dangerous sting. You can cut your risk of encountering any scorpions by taking some wise preventative measures to protect your home and family. From clearing away scorpion friendly debris to using a blacklight to spot these pests at night, these tips will help you create a scorpion free environment for your family.

Declutter your Yard

Scorpions like the dark, so the debris and decorative items you have in your yard could be attracting the pests to your home. Eliminate any easy scorpion abodes, including piles of leaves, rocks or wood, old flowerpots and furniture and even decorative pieces that offer too many shady crevices to hide in to cut your risk of encountering a scorpion.

Eliminate Entry Points

Check your home for loose shutters, windows or siding that could offer a place for scorpions to enter. If your doors and windows allow a draft or breeze to enter your home, then they are big enough to admit a scorpion as well, so seal any drafty spots right away. Trim trees to eliminate the risk of scorpions entering your home from the roof or second floor.

Use a Blacklight at Night

Scorpions are nocturnal creatures that are active after dark; if you will be outdoors after nightfall, a black light flashlight can help you spot a scorpion before you step on it. Check paths and walkways before stepping down to be sure you stay sting free.

Treat for Other Pests

Hire an exterminator to treat your home for related pests; ants, roaches and grasshoppers are all prey animals for scorpions. If you have a lot of these insects in your home or yard, chances are you’ll have a lot of scorpions preying on them as well.

Store Trash and Firewood Well

Keep trash bins and firewood away from your home; both areas can provide food and housing for scorpions. If you plan on using the fireplace, wear gloves and bring firewood directly in from outdoors and add it to the flame; storing it indoors could allow scorpions to escape into your home.

The best way to cut your risk of scorpions is to choose a knowledgeable pest technician and have them evaluate your home. The right scorpion control team can treat your home to eliminate your risk and prevent you from encountering scorpions at all.