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One scorpion sighting doesn’t necessarily mean there’s an infestation, but finding a scorpion in your home should always be taken seriously. Don’t panic, though, as that will only make the situation more stressful, and you may act irrationally out of fear. Most scorpions have extremely painful stings that cause swelling and redness, but they’re not life-threatening.

However, while not all species are dangerous, the Arizona bark scorpion, which is common in the southwest U.S., is highly venomous and potentially deadly to humans. Never attempt DIY removal if you suspect it may be the Arizona bark scorpion—instead, contact a pest control professional immediately for safe, effective scorpion removal

Heat is the most effective instant killer of bed bugs. Exposing them to temperatures above 131 degrees Fahrenheit for over an hour can eliminate them. Methods like steam cleaners and using a dryer on high heat are effective for this. Other options that can kill bed bugs on contact include EPA-approved pesticides, bleach, disinfectant sprays with alcohol, diatomaceous earth, and hydrogen peroxide. While freezing can work, it is not an instant solution, as it can take several days at 0 degrees Fahrenheit to be effective. Keep in mind that many DIY treatments won't reach bed bugs hidden in cracks or behind walls. For severe infestations or the most effective results, it is best to hire a professional exterminator for a professional heat or chemical treatment.

Yes, crawl spaces can attract bugs, especially since moisture tends to build up in the space, and moisture attracts pests. A good way to prevent pest infestation in your crawl space is to install a vapor barrier—called crawl space encapsulation—on the interior to seal the space, along with a French drain or some other kind of foundation drainage system outside to keep runoff out of your crawl space. You can also seal foundation cracks and repair damages to cut off access to pests.

The hardest ant to get rid of is the pharaoh ant. Although small, pharaoh ants can spread infections in hospitals and are known to transmit infectious diseases in schools, apartment complexes, and office buildings. For this reason, they’re best handled by pest control professionals.