Summertime walks and hikes can sometimes bring you up closer than you’d like to desert rattlesnakes. Reporter Rebecca Havely has some do’s and don’ts to keep you safe…
California has eight different species of rattlesnakes. Rattlers strike when they are threatened, deliberately provoked, or accidentally touched by someone walking or climbing. When given room they will retreat. Avoid getting closer to a rattlesnake for any reason, including photos, and never try to catch one. If a bite swells or changes color, the snake was probably poisonous. Do not use ice on the bite or open the wound. Do not cut the wound or try to suck out venom and do not use a tourniquet. Do remain calm, remove any jewelry or constricting items near the bite, keep the area with the bite below the heart and immediately seek medical attention.
DO’S AND DON’TS OF RATTLESNAKE BITES
