Rattlesnake Bites Hiker—Safety Tips

CALIFORNIA — A rescue helicopter swooped a hiker off Mt. Tamalpais in the San Francisco Bay Area on Sunday after being bitten multiple times by a rattlesnake. The CHP said its H-30 helicopter responded to the scene around 2:15 p.m. and took the hiker to John Muir Medical Center in Walnut Creek. The last available patient information is that the victim was in stable condition.

Our warm weather has brought out the state's rattlesnakes. As you hike into their territory, keep these tips in mind from the Santa Clara County Emergency Medical Services System:

• If you see a snake, stop and keep your distance. Give the snake plenty of room to get away
• Wear heavy boots that are four inches above the ankle, and long pants when hiking
• Be observant for snakes sunning on rocks or trails
• Snakes are also seen in cool areas. Watch where you step and be sure to look for snakes in areas of high brush, under logs and when stepping over logs, or fallen trees
• NEVER try to touch a snake or scare it away. Give the snake its space and back away to a safe place
• Tell a ranger or park staff if you see a snake, and NEVER try to catch it

If you or a hiking companion are bitten by a snake, follow these tips:

• Do not panic, remain calm, and slowly move away from the snake
• Call 9-1-1 or send someone for help
• DO NOT apply cold pack, tourniquet, cut the bite, or attempt to suck-out venom
• Avoid movement of the area that was bitten
• Keep the bite at or below heart level
• Do not attempt to kill or catch the snake but do try to remember what the snake looked like
• Take note of the time of the bite
• Remain calm and wait for help

(Get Patch real-time email alerts for the latest news from your California neighborhood. Also, download the free Patch iPhone app or free Patch Android app. Also, be sure to follow your local Patch on Facebook!)

-Image via CHP