Striped skunks are common in Nebraska and often wander into urban areas, so the chances of being sprayed by one are higher than you might think. Skunks have poor eyesight and typically only spray out of fear, so if you see one stomping its feet and turning around, try to keep a safe distance. If you or a family member gets sprayed, here’s what to do in addition to contacting pest control to remove the animal from the property.

What to Do if You’re Sprayed by a Skunk

1. Flush Your Eyes & Face With Water

A skunk’s spray consists of a sulfur-alcohol compound that can burn your eyes and cause temporary blindness. Before dealing with other parts of your body, wash your face and flush your eyes with lukewarm water.  

2. Avoid Going Inside or Touching Anything

Once the skunk’s spray is on your body, you can contaminate anything you touch or until it’s removed. Stay outside if possible and ask a friend or family member to bring the items needed to eliminate the odor. If you must go indoors, wrap your shoes in plastic bags and avoid touching furniture.

3. Make a Mixture to Neutralize The Odor

Contrary to popular belief, tomato juice, air fresheners, and lemon juice will not rid you of the skunk’s scent. Instead, grab a bucket and mix one quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide, 1/4 cup baking soda, and one teaspoon mild dishwashing detergent. Lather yourself in the mixture, rinse, and repeat until the smell is eliminated. 

4. Use a Deodorizing Spray

Special deodorizing sprays can be purchased at most pet stores and home and garden stores to deal with skunk odors. They’re specially formulated to neutralize the scent and can be sprayed on your body or in the home.

5. Hire a Pest Control Expert

While the skunk might have abandoned the area after the encounter, it’s also possible that it has gone into hiding nearby and will reemerge onto the property when it feels safe. A pest control company can humanely trap the skunk and relocate it to a safe area. 

If you need to get rid of a skunk on your property, Pep Co. in Kearney, NE, specializes in humane pest control services for nuisance animals. For 33 years, they’ve helped residents and businesses eliminate infestations of termites, rodents, and bed bugs. Call (308) 236-6103 to request a consultation, or visit them online to learn more about their services.