Prevention

Scorpions tend to avoid contact. If you live in an area where scorpions are common, prevent chance meetings by doing the following:

• Remove piles of rocks or lumber from around your house and don't store firewood against the house or inside.
• Keep grass closely mowed, and prune bushes and overhanging tree branches, which can provide a path to your roof for scorpions.
• Caulk cracks, install weatherstripping around doors and windows, and repair torn screens.
• Inspect and shake out gardening gloves, boots and clothing that haven't been used for a while.
• When traveling in areas where lethal scorpions are common — especially if you're camping or staying in rustic accommodations — wear shoes and shake out your clothing, bedding, gear and packages often.

Scorpions glow under a black light, so you might want to use one at night to inspect your surroundings. If you find a scorpion, use tongs to gently move it away from people.