Seeing a black widow spider in your home can be a frightening and alarming experience. These spiders are notorious for their dangerous venom and powerful bites. If you find yourself in this situation, it is important to know the steps to take in order to deal effectively with this pest. In this article, we'll discuss what to do if you encounter a black widow in your home and how to prevent them from entering your house in the first place.
Identifying Black Widows
Black widows are venomous spiders that are found throughout the United States. They are known for the distinctive red hourglass shape on the underside of their abdomen and their tendency to eat their mates after reproduction. If you see a black widow in your home, it is essential to take some steps to protect yourself and eliminate the spider. Here are some steps to take if you see a black widow in your home:
-
Stay calm
While it is natural to feel alarmed if you see a black widow in your home, it is crucial to stay calm and avoid panicking. Black widows are generally not aggressive and will only bite if they feel threatened or provoked. Therefore, if you remain calm and avoid sudden movements, you are less likely to be bitten.
-
Keep your distance
If you see a black widow in your home, keep your distance from the spider. Do not try to catch or kill the spider, as this could increase the risk of being bitten. Instead, if the spider is in a place where it poses a risk to you or your pets, try to block off the area or create a barrier between you and the spider.
-
Identify the spider
If you are unsure whether the spider you see is a black widow, try to get a good look at it. Black widows are generally about 1.5 inches long and have shiny black bodies. They are typically found in dark, secluded areas, such as basements, crawl spaces, and sheds. If the spider you are seeing has a red hourglass shape on the underside of its abdomen, it is likely a black widow.
-
Remove the spider
If you are comfortable doing so, you can try to remove the black widow from your home. You will need a jar or container with a tight-fitting lid to do this. Carefully approach the spider and use the jar or container to scoop it up gently. Cover the container and release the spider outdoors, away from your home. If you are uncomfortable removing the spider yourself, contact a pest control professional for assistance.
-
Seek medical attention if bitten
If you are bitten by a black widow, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Black widow venom can cause muscle cramping, nausea, and difficulty breathing. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital. Take a picture of the spider if you are able so that the medical staff can identify the species and determine the appropriate treatment.
Preventing black widows
First and foremost, make sure that all cracks and crevices around windows or doors are properly sealed. Black widows like dark, undisturbed corners with plenty of hiding spots; sealing up potential entry points will make it much harder for them to find their way inside. Additionally, ensure that any outdoor furniture is kept away from the walls of your home — areas close to the foundation provide ideal conditions for black widows and other pests.
In conclusion, black widows can be dangerous, but it is not very likely that you will have an encounter with one in your home. If you do see a black widow in your home, keep your distance and take steps to remove it safely. Call a pest control company such as San Joaquin Pest Control to help you handle these critters in a safe, effective manner.
