Updated: June 30, 2017

The recent hot weather and a mild winter might be bringing out more than just ticks.

Brown recluse spiders are common in Middle Tennessee and experts say you should assume they are in your home or on your property. The spiders hunt at night and are not considered aggressive, but they will bite if they feel trapped or threatened.

To stay safe from brown recluse spiders, start by removing clutter, keep your home clean and use spider traps. Eliminate the spiders’ food source by make sure there are no other insects in your home.

The spiders can hide anywhere, so be careful when handling anything inside your home attic, garage or yard that has been left undisturbed. Be sure to shake out your clothing and shoes.

If you’re bitten and have reddening skin, blistering, itching, pain, a fever, rash or nausea, call the Tennessee Poison Center at 800-222-1222 and seek medical treatment.

Experts say ice can help with pain, but most home remedies generally don’t work and can actually make your symptoms and recovery worse.