If you have a scorpion infestation in your home, there are several steps you can take to eliminate them. These methods include reducing their population, applying insecticides and other pest control solutions, as well as educating yourself on the dangers associated with their bite. Also, if you live in the Phoenix area you should know there is a scorpion season in Arizona.
Reduce their population by preventing them from entering your home in the first place. To do this, caulk all points of entry on your property like siding, windows, doors and pipes/wires with caulk or another sealing solution. Additionally, keep all outdoor areas free from debris such as firewood and other clutter.
Apply a residual insecticide such as Onslaught Fastcap, Demon WP or Talstar around the perimeter of your house and in crevices such as cracks in woodwork, closets or other hiding places where scorpions may hide. These products will effectively eliminate scorpions without harming humans and pets. Most of the time its pest to hire a professional pest control company like ACTION Termite & Pest Control to apply products like this.
Use a repellent or spray to keep scorpions away from your home, such as Raid ant and cockroach spray or Raid wasp and hornet spray. These products have the fastest activation times and will kill a scorpion within seconds of contact.
Never attempt to remove scorpions yourself, as they may sting you or your pet. If the area becomes swollen or you experience shortness of breath, seek medical assistance immediately and go directly to the emergency room for further care.
Learn to identify a scorpion by its long tail and two large pincers at the front of its body. If you don’t recognize it, call a pest control expert who can inspect your property and provide guidance on the best course of action.
Create an exclusions program for your home and other property to keep Scorpions away. This could include setting traps or using food-grade diatomaceous earth in high-traffic places where Scorpions tend to congregate, such as around perimeters of your house, behind appliances and cabinets, inside closets, near plumbing fixtures etc.
Avoid walking barefooted at night, as this provides an inviting habitat for these pests. Maintaining grass and shrubbery neatly helps reduce their population by eliminating their hiding places.
Be extra cautious when moving firewood, rocks and other debris. Insects often hide in cracks and crevices, so it’s essential to move these items carefully and in small amounts.
When moving a large amount of trash, use plastic bags or other containers to prevent dust from spreading. Containers with wide-mouthed jars also work to keep scorpions away from them by keeping them off them.
In addition to the tips above, if you spot a scorpion, do not approach it. Being stung can be extremely painful and, if it is an aggressive type, could even prove fatal for you.