The mere sight of a creepy crawly spider scaling a wall or lurking in a webbed corner can give people the heebie-jeebies— but why? Over time, myths and misconceptions about spiders have evolved throughout many cultures, resulting in a multitude of terrified reactions to this extremely common pest.

Myth 1: The average person swallows eight spiders a year when sleeping.

This myth has been widespread for many years. But fear not it is false. This myth was originally started when a columnist wrote out a list of outlandish facts that were circulating via email. In an effort to show that people will believe anything they read online. So the columnist made up some of her own ridiculous facts, including the one about spiders above. In reality it is not possible for a person to swallow even one live spider.

Myth 2: All spiders spin webs

People think spiders are associated with webs, but the truth is not all spiders spin these silk structures to catch prey. In fact, several spiders use very different strategies for catching food. For example: hunting or pouncing on their prey.

Myth 3: Daddy-Long Legs are one of the most poisonous spiders but their fangs are too short to penetrate human skin

These spiders are the subject of many urban legends but it is completely false. Simply put there are no facts to support this widespread legend.

Myth 4: Spiders are all dangerous

Spiders are predators, feeding mainly on insects, so they will help to reduce the amount of pests in homes and gardens. While it is true that spiders have a venomous bite, only a few species are medically dangerous. For example the widow spiders and recluse spiders pose a threat to humans.

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At the first sight of a spider, many of us will run scared, calling for the bravest person in our household to kill it. Although most spiders are nuisance pests, it is important homeowners familiarize themselves with the more dangerous species of spiders so they can protect themselves and their families and also be prepared to act if should be faced with one of these spiders in their home.

Brown Recluse

Arizona Brown Spider is a species of brown recluse spiders found in Arizona. It has two body parts and eight legs, a distinct violin shaped marking on top of head, 3 sets of eyes, 1/4 to 1/2 inches long with long thin legs, and yellowish to light brown color. Arizona Brown Spider is a species of brown recluse spiders found in Arizona. It has two body parts and eight legs, a distinct violin shaped marking on top of head, 3 sets of eyes, 1/4 to 1/2 inches long with long thin legs, and yellowish to light brown color. This spider bites, usually unintentionally when it feels trapped. The venom can cause severe allergic reactions, notably in kids.

The Black Widow

Black widows have eight legs and two body parts like all spiders. They have specific markings used for identification, but these markings vary and can make identifying difficult. Females are 1/2 inch long, shiny black with a red hourglass shaped marking on a round abdomen. Males are black with red spots and white lines going out to the side. They are half the size of the female. Spiderlings are orange and white in color turning blacker with each molt. Black widows enter a home in search of shelter. They live in solitary. Normally found in sheds and garages or other areas that are darker and less trafficked. Black widow bites are painful resulting in localized pain, severe cramping, nausea, sweating, fever, etc. A physician should be consulted if bitten since reactions vary due to person and amount of venom introduced.

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What to do with spider bites:

• If you suspect a spider has bitten you, try to bring it with you to the doctor so they can determine the best course of treatment based on the species.
• Clean the site of the spider bite well with soap and water.
• Apply a cool compress over the spider bite location (using a cloth dampened with cold water or filled with ice).
• If you suspect the bite is form a black widow or brown recluse spider, and the bite is on an extremity, elevate it.
• Consider tying a snug bandage above the bite and elevate the limb to help slow or halt the venom’s spread. Ensure that the bandage is not so tight that it cuts off circulation in your arm or leg.
• Adults can take aspirin or acetaminophen and antihistamines to relieve minor signs and symptoms (but use caution when giving aspirin to children or teenagers).
• Seek medical attention for any severe signs and symptoms, or if signs and symptoms continue to worsen for more than 24 hours.
If a reaction continues to get worse for more than 24 hours then you should start to worry and seek medical attention. Look for redness spreading away from the bite, increase in pain, numbness/tingling, or a discoloration around the bite. In some rare cases, there have been reports of spider bites causing allergic reactions, including anaphylactic shock. Follow us: @nwexterminatin1 on Twitter | Northwest Exterminating Facebook

The violin spider or brown recluse spider, commonly found in south-central and mid-western and southern states, are mostly encountered from moving boxes or rooting about in closets, attics, garages or under beds where they may have nested.

These spiders are brown in color with a dark violin-shaped or fiddle-shaped marking on its head. Known to has six equal sized eyes, instead of eight, this spider has the worst bite producing severe stinging, followed by local redness and intense pain within eight hours. A fluid-filled blister forms at the and then sloughs off to leave a deep, enlarging ulcer. Generalized reactions from a brown recluse spider bite vary from a mild fever and rash to nausea and listlessness. Unfortunately, brown recluses are almost communal and can be sometimes be found in great numbers.

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Infestations of both ticks and fleas can pop up quickly and be very difficult to control. Sometimes, even the most conscientious pet owner can be caught off guard. The best action Northwest takes is with quick detection. Follow these prevention tips below:

Check pets frequently for fleas. Be aware of excessive scratching, licking and different grooming behavior.
Wash pet bedding, collars, and toys at the hottest temperature it can tolerate.
Untended lawns provide hiding spots and food sources for animals that fleas feed on. Keep it groomed.
Keep pets leashed. Bathe and groom them regularly and use recommended treatments by your veterinarian.
Clean and vacuum frequently, with particular action to any place that an animal rested or bed.
Know where to expect ticks. They can be carried into the house on clothing. Place in dryer on high heat for at least an hour to effectively kill.
If you notice a rodent problem on your property, immediately call a pest control expert because fleas hitch rides on rodents.