Children who are curious and handle rattlesnakes are often bitten. Children should be taught to leave snakes alone, to stay calm if they see one, and to notify an adult.
Rattlesnakes (such as this one from this weekend) have been visiting my local trails. They will strike if startled, and their bites can be fatal. Prevent snake bites with these rattlesnake safety tips:
- Wear a stout leather boot—at the very least covering the ankles. Watch where you walk and put your feet.
- Use a walking stick, stay in the middle of well-used trails, and keep children near. Watch the trail and learn the sound of a rattlesnake. If you hear a rattle, move away SLOWLY and do not make threatening movements. Keep at least 10 feet to give the snake space to get away.
- When camping, store firewood away from the tent and eating area. A firewood pile may look like a wonderful new home to a snake.
- Always travel with companions. For a snakebite, one can stay with the victim while the other goes for help. Carry a cell phone with you.
- If you see a rattlesnake, do not attempt to move or kill it. Rattlesnakes will generally leave an area if left alone. Even baby rattlesnakes are poisonous. Freshly killed rattlesnakes can still inject venom, even when decapitated! Rattlesnakes can swim, so never reach for something that looks like a branch or a stick in the water.
If You Are Bitten . . .
- Stay calm
- Wash the bite area gently with soap and water
- Remove watches, rings, etc., which may constrict swelling
- Immobilize the affected area
- Transport safely to the nearest medical facility (if possible, call ahead to let them know you are bringing in a snake-bite victim. )
