The more time people spend outdoors hiking, camping or such, the more likely it is that they will eventually meet up with a snake. Perhaps one of the most feared of these reptilian foes is the poisonous rattlesnake, commonly found in the southwestern United States, however in most cases these creatures will not harm people unless they are provoked. In order to be prepared in case of experiencing rattlesnake bites Poway CA wilderness enthusiasts should know how treat them and preferably prevent them in the first place.
Generally it's safest to stick to clearly marked paths when hiking through a wooded area. Dense, grassy areas with lots of underbrush are more likely to conceal the presence of a snake. When it's necessary to trek through tall grass, it's best to first probe the area with a long stick before taking a step.
Snakes possess the ability to slither up trees, which means one also has to be aware of this possibility and on guard when in wooded areas. Also, they love to use dark spots such as hollow logs, or spaces in rock piles as resting spots, so one must never carelessly stick a hand into such a place without first investigating it with a flashlight.
A dead snake is still a potentially dangerous snake because these creatures retain their reflexes and are therefore capable of biting even if they have just been killed, so no one should poke them. Sleeping snakes should be left alone as well, since they may only look unresponsive but will attack if startled.
Snakes are largely nocturnal, mostly hunting at night. Therefore it's safest to make sure that there are no rocky areas, tall grass, or large, fallen tree branches or logs on the ground where one sets up a campsite, as snakes could be lurking in these places and pay campers an unwelcome visit at night. Zipping up tents tightly and keeping footwear inside it is advisable, unless one wants to find a snake coiled up in their boots.
Sometimes bites cannot be avoided, and when this does happen one must not panic, but promptly apply first aid measures and seek medical attention. A snake's venom is toxic saliva which is secreted to immobilize and digest the prey. Ultimately an "antivenin" will need to be administered by a physician, this substance is derived from snake venom injected into the bloodstream of a horse, which builds antibodies that can be used on humans.
The first thing to do is cleanse the bite with soap and water, keeping it at a level below the heart, as this helps slow down the venom's flow. Jewelry should be removed if there is swelling so circulation isn't impaired. A bandage should be firmly wrapped around the affected appendage, about two to four inches above the bite, then a suction device, included with snake bite kits, can be used for up to ten minutes to extract the venom.
One should be sure not to make a cut above the wound in an attempt to drain it, suck out the venom with their mouth, or apply ice which can hinder the effectiveness of a suction device. Keeping calm is also critical, as panicking can elevate the heart rate and speed up the venom's circulation.
Generally it's safest to stick to clearly marked paths when hiking through a wooded area. Dense, grassy areas with lots of underbrush are more likely to conceal the presence of a snake. When it's necessary to trek through tall grass, it's best to first probe the area with a long stick before taking a step.
Snakes possess the ability to slither up trees, which means one also has to be aware of this possibility and on guard when in wooded areas. Also, they love to use dark spots such as hollow logs, or spaces in rock piles as resting spots, so one must never carelessly stick a hand into such a place without first investigating it with a flashlight.
A dead snake is still a potentially dangerous snake because these creatures retain their reflexes and are therefore capable of biting even if they have just been killed, so no one should poke them. Sleeping snakes should be left alone as well, since they may only look unresponsive but will attack if startled.
Snakes are largely nocturnal, mostly hunting at night. Therefore it's safest to make sure that there are no rocky areas, tall grass, or large, fallen tree branches or logs on the ground where one sets up a campsite, as snakes could be lurking in these places and pay campers an unwelcome visit at night. Zipping up tents tightly and keeping footwear inside it is advisable, unless one wants to find a snake coiled up in their boots.
Sometimes bites cannot be avoided, and when this does happen one must not panic, but promptly apply first aid measures and seek medical attention. A snake's venom is toxic saliva which is secreted to immobilize and digest the prey. Ultimately an "antivenin" will need to be administered by a physician, this substance is derived from snake venom injected into the bloodstream of a horse, which builds antibodies that can be used on humans.
The first thing to do is cleanse the bite with soap and water, keeping it at a level below the heart, as this helps slow down the venom's flow. Jewelry should be removed if there is swelling so circulation isn't impaired. A bandage should be firmly wrapped around the affected appendage, about two to four inches above the bite, then a suction device, included with snake bite kits, can be used for up to ten minutes to extract the venom.
One should be sure not to make a cut above the wound in an attempt to drain it, suck out the venom with their mouth, or apply ice which can hinder the effectiveness of a suction device. Keeping calm is also critical, as panicking can elevate the heart rate and speed up the venom's circulation.
About the Author:
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