People who enjoy hiking and camping in the wilderness are most likely aware of the possibility that they will encounter a snake. The rattlesnake is one such type one may come across, and in spite of the their scary reputation as a poisonous viper, they usually avoid humans. Bites normally happen when someone tries to aggravate or move the snake. By following these tips for preventing and managing rattlesnake bites Poway CA outdoor enthusiasts can hopefully avoid this incident, and if it does occur, treat it effectively.
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.
Not everyone is aware of the fact that snakes are able to slither up trees and hide amongst the branches, but since then can do this, one should be watchful when walking beneath foliage. Hollow logs, and crevasses between rocks are other favorite hangouts for snakes, so it's best to always investigate such spots with a flashlight before sticking one's hand inside.
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.
First, wash the bite with soap and water to remove as much venom as possible, and keep the wound site below the heart to slow down the venom's flow. It can cause swelling, so remove jewelry as to not impair circulation. Next, the area should be tightly wrapped with a bandage about two to four inches above the bite. The suction device from a snake bite kit can eliminate up to 30 percent of the venom and may be left on for as long as ten minutes.
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.
Not everyone is aware of the fact that snakes are able to slither up trees and hide amongst the branches, but since then can do this, one should be watchful when walking beneath foliage. Hollow logs, and crevasses between rocks are other favorite hangouts for snakes, so it's best to always investigate such spots with a flashlight before sticking one's hand inside.
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.
First, wash the bite with soap and water to remove as much venom as possible, and keep the wound site below the heart to slow down the venom's flow. It can cause swelling, so remove jewelry as to not impair circulation. Next, the area should be tightly wrapped with a bandage about two to four inches above the bite. The suction device from a snake bite kit can eliminate up to 30 percent of the venom and may be left on for as long as ten minutes.
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.
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