Prevention is key to avoid scorpion stings

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - It's no surprise scorpions are present in the Desert Southwest, but the region is experiencing an increase in scorpion sightings.

Paramedics even responded to a 9-1-1 call just after midnight Monday for a scorpion sting.

Mike Erfert with the Yuma Fire Department says treating a sting can be much simpler if it's prevented.

This includes checking the inside of shoes, under rugs and monitoring children while they play outside. Many times, stings occur because of a lack in awareness of surroundings. Scorpions can be hidden under rocks, wood or other outdoor areas.

"If you got things that are maybe sitting outside that they get into," Erfert said. "If you leave your shoes or boots outside at night, you better be sure to shake them out good before you put them on."

Fred Rozo, an entomologist at Western Exterminator says if you see a scorpion, don't panic, but there's one thing to remember.

"Don't go at it aggressively because they will feel threatened and can cause some issues," Rozo said. "For the general part, they're not going to be after people anyway, uh, they're looking for insects."

Rozo also advises people to limit the places where it's easy for them to hide. This includes anything leaning up against a wall or natural debris such as a pile of leaves.

If you do happen to get stung, the treatment differs with each person. Some can relieve the pain by applying ice. For others, they might need medical attention from an allergic reaction and difficulty breathing.

"Older folks or the very young can have a worse reaction and they should be more careful and it's more likely that something like that would be a 9-1-1 call," Erfert said.

Paramedics are there to help if a person is experiencing anaphylactic shock from a scorpion sting.