Facts
  • Scorpions are small, very slim, and can vary from light straw colored to black in color, with a stinger at the tip of the tail.
  • They like shade and are often found around lumber piles and old tree stumps
  • Though painful, a scorpion sting is usually not lethal.
  • The severity of reaction depends on the victim's sensitivity to the venom.

 

Causes of Injury
  • Injection of venom from a bite of a scorpion

 

Prevention
  • Do not pick up or disturb a scorpion.
  • Avoid locations where scorpions are found.
  • Wear gloves when working outside.
  • Shake out clothing and bedding before use.
  • When sleeping, leave boots upside-down atop sticks thrust into the ground.

 

Planning/Packing Guide
  • Gloves
  • Antihistamine
  • Acetaminophen

 

Symptoms
  • Pain or burning at the site
  • Swelling
  • Numbness
  • Restlessness
  • Fever
  • Fast pulse
  • Breathing difficulty

 

First Aid
  • Clean the wound.
  • Apply a cold pack.
  • Keep the bite area immobilized at heart level.
  • For severe pain use oral painkiller (acetaminophen).
  • For severe reaction take antihistamine (Benadryl).
  • Seek medical attention if no signs of improvement.

 

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