Now that summer has arrived, it’s the ideal time for you to indulge your passion for the great outdoors. Though activities like hiking, camping, canoeing and kayaking can be enjoyable, they can put you in the position to cross paths with creatures who live in the wild such as snakes.
The following sections will help prepare you for any potential encounters you might have with a snake in its natural habitat.
What Do I Do If I Run Into A Snake?
If you discover a snake in the wild you should apply the following steps geared to keep both of you safe:
- Don’t panic or make any sudden moves.
- Keep your distance and give the snake some space.
- Never try to poke the snake with anything like a stick.
- Remember that the snake is probably more afraid of you.
- Slowly back away and head in a different direction.
What Do I Do If I Suffer A Snake Bite?
First of all, you should note that snakes will normally only bite a human if they are threatened and feel they need to defend themselves. However, if you do get bitten you should initiate the following protocol:
- Take a good look at the snake so you can describe it later when you’re getting medical attention.
- Move as far away from the snake as possible.
- Immediately lie down in a position where the wound is below your heart.
- Keep calm and remain as still as possible.
- Don’t cut or bite the wound.
- Don’t try to suck the venom out.
- If ice is available, apply it to the wound.
- Cover the wound with a bandage.
- Take off any jewelry that’s near the wound.
- If your foot or leg was bitten, take off your shoes.
- Don’t take any painkillers or drink alcohol.
- Seek medical attention ASAP.
How Can I Tell If A Snake Is Venomous?
Normally if a snake is venomous it will have the following characteristics:
- Be big in size
- Have a rattle on its tale
- Have a distinct and colorful pattern on its skin
- Possess a broad triangular-shaped head
- Have elliptical cat-like eyes
For more information about snakes, visit the Hocking Woods Nature Center.