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For years, it was believed that hobo spider bites were incredibly dangerous, causing flesh-eating wounds. But the rumors of their bites were greatly exaggerated, and there's been no real evidence showing a connection between a hobo spider bite and necrotizing wounds. 

That said, the spiders can and do bite, usually as a defense response. They won't attack you unprovoked, but if you take them by surprise and get close enough, they may bite you. Their bites may cause some minor irritation or itchiness. 

Possums don’t typically pose a danger to humans—they prefer to stay out of sight. If they feel threatened, they play dead instead of engaging. However, they can become aggressive when cornered, typically when they become trapped inside your home or when a dog chases them. When this happens, it’s best to call a wildlife control service near you to remove possums safely.

One way to keep pests away is with good housekeeping. Keep ants away with a clean kitchen. They’re less likely to wander in looking to score some free food if there isn’t a mess to find. Wipe down counters, don’t leave dirty dishes around, and keep food in air-tight containers. 

Home and yard maintenance can also keep pests away. Seal windows, patch any holes or cracks, and put screens on the vents to prevent bugs, rodents, and other uninvited guests from coming in.

If you’ve spotted a skunk or know that one of these furry creatures sprayed one of your family members, your answer is fairly obvious. However, a skunky smell in your house that isn’t coming from these critters may be a sign of a dangerous gas leak. If you suspect this, leave your home immediately and call emergency services. It could also be a build-up of dangerous gas in your home’s septic system or plumbing. Call a professional plumber near you to make an assessment.