Local Snake Concerns on the Rise

As residents of California, it is important to have awareness of snakes. California has a variety of snakes; however the one that generates the most concern is California’s only native venomous snake – the rattlesnake. According to the California Poison Control System Executive Director, Dr. Stuart E. Heard, the number of calls into the California Poison Control System regarding rattlesnake bites is at a 12 year high, with a 48% increase over last year. Agricultural and recreation officials believe that an explosion in the rodent population caused by heavy rains over the last two winters has provided more food for snakes and resulted in an increased snake population. Others believe that the increase in snakebites has much more to do with human and snake interaction, where we choose to live, and how we choose to recreate.

Local emergency responders were dispatched to a handful of reported snakebites in June of this year, including one on June 11^th along the Fair Oaks portion of the American River bike trail. Additionally there were a dozen requests for rattlesnake removal during the month of July, including requests made in Citrus Heights. There are still some large vacant lots and areas along the creek where snakes live. Regardless of the reasons behind the increased interaction between humans and snakes, there are definitely some safety tips to help prevent you from becoming a snakebite victim.

Safety tips

• Never go barefoot or wear sandals when walking through wild areas. Wear hiking boots.
• When hiking, stick to paths and well-used trails.
• Never hike alone and use a hiking stick. If you come across a snake, it can strike the stick instead of you.
• Never grab what appears to be “sticks” or “branches” while swimming in rivers or lakes. Rattlesnakes are excellent swimmers.
• Be careful when stepping over the doorstep. Snakes like to crawl along the edge of buildings where they are protected on one side.
• Always give snakes the right of way.
• Teach children to respect snakes and to leave snakes alone.
• Keep an eye on your pets when they are outdoors.

Do’s and don’ts if you get bitten

• Stay calm, and reassure others. Rarely are rattlesnake bites fatal.
• Wash the bite area with soap and water.
• Apply a wet cold cloth over the bite.
• Immediately seek medical attention at the nearest emergency medical facility.
• DO NOT apply a tourniquet.
• DO NOT pack the bite area in ice.
• DO NOT cut the wound with a knife or razor and use your mouth to suck out the venom.
• DO NOT drink alcohol or allow the bite victim to drink alcohol.

Snakes are generally not aggressive and generally only strike when threatened or deliberately provoked; given room, they will retreat. The majority of snakebites occur between April and October when snakes and humans are most active outdoors. Most bites occur on the hands, feet, and ankles, and happen when people attempt to catch or kill snakes.