ScorpionScorpion
Sting Survival

Stung by a scorpion? If you are in Arizona, California, or the American Southwest, chances are the scorpion sting may hurt like heck, but it is rarely deadly. 

By Bobbi Holmes

           Dormant in the winter months, scorpions awaken during Havasu's summer weather. Having lived both in a primitive, remote area on the California side of Lake Havasu, and in Lake Havasu City itself, I can honestly say that you are more likely to come across a scorpion while near the water or camping in an undeveloped area, as opposed to staying within Lake Havasu City. Yet, I have found several scorpions around our pool and in the garage.

Scorpions found in Lake Havasu
           Experts I've spoken to assure me that the scorpions in our area are not deadly. Although, they can be a real danger to very young children or elderly people. Of course, each person has the potential of having his or her own allergic reaction to any sting or bite.
           Since my family has lived in the Havasu area for more than thirty years, I do have a few words of advice, because, even if the sting of the scorpion does not kill you, it can hurt like heck. And if you are camping or enjoying the lake with very young children, it is your responsibility to protect them from potential danger.      
           Scorpions love to cling onto things, such as towels and blankets. When gathering your belongs from the beach, be sure to inspect each item for unwanted visitors. Imagine coming home from the lake and carelessly tossing your beach towel onto your bed. Later that night, as you snuggle under the covers, you roll over on a scorpion that you had unwittingly dropped there. It happened to me, and the little monster managed to sting me three times before I could untangle myself from the covers.

 Pay Attentions to Pets and Towels

           Pets can also bring them into the house. It's not uncommon for a scorpion to cling unnoticed to your dog's fur, thus finding its way into your home or lodging. And remember, check your shoes before slipping them on!
           Since scorpions come out at night, I would caution against going barefoot. I always keep a pair of sandals by the back door, to slip on at night before making my way to the pool or spa.
           And if you do get stung, RELAX! The worse thing you can do is become agitated or excited. Calm yourself, breathe deeply, and try a bit of Lamaze type breathing. Everyone is different, as is every time you are stung. My mother has been the victim of several scorpions. Sometimes it didn't even phase her, other times she was in terrible pain for hours. When I was stung, my body felt as if it were paralyzed for about 24 hours. I discovered the actual pain subsided as soon as I was able to relax and calm myself.
           The good news, even if you manage to get stung by one of our local scorpions, in most cases, you will be feeling better by the next day.