[header] How to save an ant and other tiny critters [title] Understand that ants/spiders usually try to escape if they are in milk or water. [step] If they can't they usually stop moving, which is why the ant/spider may not be dead. [title] Put something in the water to rescue the ant/spider. 
[step] This could be a spoon or if it's a closet your toilet brush could do. Just try to get them on to the item.