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Preventing Snakebites
The following are some suggested general guidelines to avoid a rattlesnake encounter.
- Always stay on paths - avoid tall grass, weeds and heavy underbrush
- Use a walking stick when hiking and walk heavily to let the snake know you are coming. They may sense ground vibrations. If you come across a snake, it can strike the stick instead of you.
- Always look for concealed snakes before picking up rocks, sticks or firewood.
- Always check carefully around stumps or logs before sitting down.
- Never grab 'sticks' or 'branches' while swimming - rattlesnakes are excellent swimmers and can bite in water.
- Never go barefoot or wear sandals when walking "in the rough." Wear protective foot and leg wear.
- If you see a rattlesnake, stay calm and back away. Do nothing that will threaten the snake.
- Don't handle freshly killed snakes or snake heads - you may still be bitten.
- Never tease a snake to see how far it can strike. You can be several feet from a snake and still be within striking distance.
- Don't keep rattlesnakes as pets. The majority of rattlesnake bites occur when people tease or play with rattlesnakes.
- Teach children to respect snakes and to leave them alone.
- When climbing, beware of putting a hand up over rocks. When gardening or working in a vineyard, be careful of putting your hand into a bush.
- Care should be taken at night when snakes are more active, for the chance of stepping on a snake is greater.