Those who enjoy spending time outdoors doing activities such as camping or hiking are quite likely to encounter a snake at some time, if they have not already. Rattlesnakes are common to the southwestern United States, and despite people's fear of them, these poisonous serpents are actually quite shy. If they bite someone, it's usually after being provoked in some way. By being armed with the knowledge of how to both prevent and treat rattlesnake bites Poway CA hikers and campers will be suitably prepared.
Always be able to clearly see where one is walking. This means sticking to the trails and staying out of areas dense in grassy underbrush, which are prime hideouts for these reptiles. If it's necessary to hike through tall grass, probing the ground with a long stick before stepping forward is advisable.
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.
Even once a snake is technically "dead" it retains some of its reflexes and can still bite someone. Poking at a seemingly dead snake is not advisable for this reason, nor should anyone disturb a sleeping snake since they can be easily roused from slumber and prompted to attack.
Since snakes are nocturnal creatures which hunt by night, it makes sense to take some precautions when it comes to setting up one's campsite as to avoid some uninvited guests. Tents should not be placed near fallen logs or tree branches, rocky areas, or tall grass were snakes could live. At night, tents must be snugly zipped up, with all footwear brought inside, since these too can be potential hiding places.
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.
Washing the bite thoroughly with soap and water can remove some of the venom. The wound also needs to be kept below heart-level, as this slows the venom's flow. Swelling may occur, in which case jewelry should be removed so that circulation isn't impaired. Snugly wrap a bandage about two to four inches above the bite and use a suction device found in a snake bite kit for up to ten minutes to help extract as much as 30 percent of the venom.
Do not make a cut above the wound to drain it, or suck the venom out with one's mouth. Ice should not be applied, since it can inhibit the effectiveness of a suction device. Getting upset emotionally increases one's heart rate, which actually promotes the venom's circulation throughout the body, so keeping still and calm is essential.
Always be able to clearly see where one is walking. This means sticking to the trails and staying out of areas dense in grassy underbrush, which are prime hideouts for these reptiles. If it's necessary to hike through tall grass, probing the ground with a long stick before stepping forward is advisable.
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.
Even once a snake is technically "dead" it retains some of its reflexes and can still bite someone. Poking at a seemingly dead snake is not advisable for this reason, nor should anyone disturb a sleeping snake since they can be easily roused from slumber and prompted to attack.
Since snakes are nocturnal creatures which hunt by night, it makes sense to take some precautions when it comes to setting up one's campsite as to avoid some uninvited guests. Tents should not be placed near fallen logs or tree branches, rocky areas, or tall grass were snakes could live. At night, tents must be snugly zipped up, with all footwear brought inside, since these too can be potential hiding places.
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.
Washing the bite thoroughly with soap and water can remove some of the venom. The wound also needs to be kept below heart-level, as this slows the venom's flow. Swelling may occur, in which case jewelry should be removed so that circulation isn't impaired. Snugly wrap a bandage about two to four inches above the bite and use a suction device found in a snake bite kit for up to ten minutes to help extract as much as 30 percent of the venom.
Do not make a cut above the wound to drain it, or suck the venom out with one's mouth. Ice should not be applied, since it can inhibit the effectiveness of a suction device. Getting upset emotionally increases one's heart rate, which actually promotes the venom's circulation throughout the body, so keeping still and calm is essential.
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