It's the tail-end of mating season for spiders in the UK and you might have noticed an increase in the number of creepy crawlies in your home.
This ‘invasion’ – mostly male spiders out and about looking for a mate – also extends to vehicles, with cracks and gaps in wing mirrors being a particular favourite hiding places.
The tell-tale webs can leave some motorists feeling weak at the wheel, particularly if you're one of the estimated 37 per cent of people in the UK with 'arachnophobia' - ie, a fear of spiders.
Thankfully, there are natural ways to ward-off the mini beasts without harming them.
Graham Conway, Managing Director of Select Car Leasing, said:
“There is no middle ground with spiders – you are either terrified of them or the nominated person in a house who has to get rid of them. But when it comes to motoring this is obviously become a major concern as any shocks or surprises while behind the wheel can lead to accidents and injuries.
Killing spiders hanging around in your car is one extreme option, but thankfully there are some other methods that are more humane and ultimately more successful in bidding adios to arachnids.”
Select Car Leasing’s Mr Conway advises using certain scents to discourage any spider activity in or around your car.
He added:
“Vinegar, peppermint oil, eucalyptus oil, lemon oil and cedarwood are all readily available and are fantastic for putting off spiders. Simply fill a bottle with a mix of the scent and some water, then spray in the areas you want to keep spider free.
“It’s worth experimenting with the different aromas, and even combining a few to find the precise recipe for keeping them at bay."
The advice is crucial for all motorists as being spooked by a spider while driving could lead to an accident and court action.
If you are found guilty of careless driving, this can mean a £2,500 fine and up to nine points on your licence,
Select Car Leasing’s Mr Conway said:
“All species of house spiders found in the UK love warm and dry environments so your car can become the perfect refuge. Using these scents and regularly cleaning your vehicle should minimise the risk of one appearing when you least expect it. But if the worst does happen, try to keep calm and find a safe place to pull over and deal with the creepy crawly.
“It’s also worth giving yourself some extra time to regulate your breathing and mentally prepare to get back behind the wheel. After all, you are in charge of a two-tonne piece of metal travelling at speed so distractions can be fatal.”
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