Always carry a flashlight and wear shoes or boots when walking after dark. Never handle a venomous reptile, even after it's dead. Reflex strikes with envenomations can occur for several hours after death. It may be distinguished from other less toxic species by its more slender tail segments and pincers. Reaching only an inch and a half at maturity, it is a comparatively small scorpion.
Scorpions are relatively inactive during the daylight hours.
The majority of envenomations reported to the Poison Center occur at night during the warm summer months. Most stings occurring in healthy young adults may be managed at home with basic first aid measures and follow-up. First aid should include cleaning the site with soap and water, cool compress, elevating the affected limb to approximately heart level, and aspirin or Tylenol as needed for minor discomfort. Stings occurring in children or any patient experiencing severe symptoms should be seen at a health care facility immediately.