Prevention

Reducing the possibility of an encounter with a brown recluse spider starts with eliminating known spider habitats.

• Perform routine, thorough house cleaning.
  
  
• Reduce clutter in garages, attics, and basements.
  
  
• Move all firewood, building materials, and debris away from the home's foundation.
  
  
• Install tight-fitting window screens and door sweeps.
  
  
• Clean behind outside home shutters.
  
  
• Consider installing yellow or sodium vapor light bulbs outside entrances because these lights are less attractive to insects and draw fewer spiders to the area.
  
  
• Consider professional pest elimination.