It is also helpful to know each snakes habitat and location when determining its potential for harm.The easiest way to learn about local venomous species is by visiting a park ranger or wildlife expert before you hit the trails. Rattlesnakes pose a significant threat to hikers, so understanding how they behave and where they tend to appear is crucial in ensuring hiker safety. Continue with Recommended Cookies. Some will flee, some will stand their ground, and some will act aggressively. For those hiking in high-risk snake areas or during snake mating season, consider investing in snake gaiters or snake-proof boots, which provide an extra layer of protection. Just as trails come in many different shapes and sizes, so do the creatures you might encounter along the way. How to Avoid Snake Bites While Hiking Hiking Mystery Most deaths from rattlesnakes occur between 6-48 hours. What time of day are snakes most active? An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. They can mask off heat that may emanate from your feet since snakes draw to heat sources. You want to restrict movement as much as possible to decrease your heart rate. Several precautions can be taken to reduce the risk of encountering a snake and getting bitten during a hike. He had been wearing flip-flops at the time and had been walking through thick brush when the snake suddenly coiled up in front of him. You can use a rag, clothing, or the tubing from your camelback. Keep in mind that a rattlesnake can lunge about two-thirds of its body length, so ten steps is usually considered safe. To be completely, Read More Hiking Boots Ankle Support Myth: DebunkedContinue, Are you ready to get your hiking boots on and hit the trails? If you have any ideas, please feel free to contact us, we greatly appreciate your comments. But sometimes, no matter how many times you shampoo, that campfire smell just wont come out. Hiking boots may prevent snake bites, but they dont guarantee 100% protection. If you decide to purchase a product via one of our links, we will recieve a small compensation, which in turn, helps us to keep making videos and posts to share with all of you. Severe pain at the site of the bite. * Do not cut into a snake bite with a knife or razor. The best way to respond to such a situation is to be prepared and take action immediately. Mid-cut and high-cut hiking boots have taller uppers than hiking shoes, which are more protective. In fact, it may be best to avoid it altogether. However, this depends on the type of hiking boots you wear. For instance, the California Poison Control system said rattlesnakes are among the top culprits of snake bits among outdoor goers, explorers, and hikers. Be cautious and alert when climbing rocks. During the warmer months, these often-misunderstood creatures become more active, increasing encounters with hikers worldwide. They will be ahead of you and to the sides, allowing snakes to strike them instead of you. So its always best to stay vigilant when hiking in these areas! Look out for potential snake hiding spots, such as logs, rock piles, tall grass, and underbrush. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. If youre lucky enough to see a rattlesnake before it sees you, look for the following defining characteristics: Copperheads are the most common venomous snake in the eastern United States. Snakebites: First aid - Mayo Clinic How To Prevent Snake Bites While Camping Choose Snake-Free Spots For Camping Do I Get a Good SHTF Weapon in a Shotgun Citadel Boss 25? If you think a snake is moving but want to be sure, use the following steps: Step 1: Grab your hiking stick and stand in front of the snake. Clean the bite with soap and water. Some of the links on CAHikingAdventures.com and CAHikingAdventures media are affiliate links with Amazon. How to Avoid Snakes While Hiking: Tips and Tricks to Keep You Safe Receive the latest updates on how to protect trails. First off, understanding snake habitats and where they tend to spend most of their time is crucial. However, the only exception to this rule is if youre located somewhere extremely remote. Dont tread or step into places outdoors that you cant see. Avoid being bitten Leave snakes alone. Apart from being careful, wearing protective hiking gear can help as well. This means you may find them hiding under rocks, logs, or in shady areas. As opposed to popular belief that you can tell venomous snakes from their color of head shapes, it is not always so. Similarly, one should take precautionary measures while hiking near water sources such as lakes or rivers as some species of snakes prefer these habitats.Anecdotal evidence shows that snakes can often be found basking out in the sun on warm days, particularly in open fields or areas with light vegetation. Place the end of the bandage on the skin and, by overlapping technique, wrap the skin. The American Red Cross recommends applying a compression bandage above the bite and immobilizing the affected limb to slow the spread of venom throughout the body.In general, it is best to avoid snakes altogether while hiking by staying on designated trails, making noise to alert snakes of your presence, and keeping your eyes peeled for any signs of slithering visitors. Hiking Snake Bite Prevention Call 911 or go to the closest emergency department if you are unsure about the type of snake that bit you. Therefore, you are more likely to find them on the trail early in the morning or evening. Treating a Snake Bite | Wild Backpacker And if you must hike on those trails, wear boots that are snake-proof. In this article, we will examine various precautionary measures to help you stay snake-bite free on your next hiking adventure. What should you do if you see a snake while hiking? Observing an insect or an animal in its own natural habitat can make for a memorable hiking experience. Usually a snakebite results in only minor injury. Further, certain types of snakes are more likely to be present in specific geographical areas. Therefore, its best to opt for neutral colors such as greens, browns, and khakis that blend in with the natural surroundings.In summary, when hiking in areas prone to snakes, its best to wear protective clothing and footwear. When you step off the path, you may be unintentionally entering a snakes territory, which increases your chances of an encounter. Theres nothing like a crackling campfire, the smell of pine in the air, and fresh, clean hair. In addition, you may want to mark the edge of the swelling so that you can see how or if the swelling increases over time. Snake bites are scary and painful, but by remaining calm you can help your body handle the situation better. Do not drink any alcohol or take aspirin after a snakebite. When you see a snake in your yard, don't approach it. 4. Dont do anything to the place you were bittenyou might make it worse. Rattlesnakes have between 120 and 150 PSI, and their fangs can penetrate hiking boots, depending on their size. Scrambling is a great way to, Read More What Is Scrambling in Hiking?Continue, Hiking can bring its own set of physical challenges, so when you do take to the trails, your foundation is everything. However, this depends on different factors. Snake-proof hiking boots are one of the greatest investments a hiker can make. If you see a snake while hiking, the best thing to do is give it a wide berth and avoid making any sudden movements. Hike with the buddy. While on the trail, snakes can camouflage with the ground, and the most vulnerable part of your legs is your feet. Sit or lie down so that the bite is in a neutral, comfortable position. A rattlesnake will NOT always rattle before it strikes. This can penetrate boots unless they are snakeproof boots, and some can reach the skin beneath the layers of hiking boots. Don't Try to Capture the Snake When hiking in areas where venomous snakes are present, its important to take extra precautions with your clothing and gear to minimize your risk of coming into contact with them. 1. . If you have a hiking partner with you, step back slowly while keeping an eye on the movement of the snake. They are tough and thick and can deflect snake fangs to a large extent. If you see a snake in the wild, maintain a distance of at least 6 feet. Additionally, many parks nowadays have signs which describe dangerous animals found in homes and frequented sites.For instance, Arizona has numerous different types of venomous snakes including the diamondback rattlesnake, coral snake, copperhead and bushmaster. Logs or branches: Snakes can also use logs or branches as hiding places.4. Additionally, hiking poles can also help you maintain balance while backtracking away from the snake.Another critical aspect is sticking to cleared paths or trails while hiking. Look around before you sit down. A survey carried out by the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AGFD) found that around 85% of rattlesnake bites happen between April and October typically warm months when hiking activities tend to increase. Rattlesnakes spend a lot of their time hiding, and most of the other time they have is spent sitting in ambush, waiting for a rodent, lizard, or bird to come along. If the bite is on an arm or a leg, keep the affected limb immobilized and at or below the level of your heart to minimize venom circulation. Remove any jewelry or tight-fitting clothing in case of swelling. If the material of the hiking boot is leather or nylon, the snake can hardly bite through it. Snakes can strike faster and farther than you might think - some nearly half their body length. First, freeze in place and slowly back away from the snake until you are at a safe distance. But in this case, the higher the uppers, the more they can prevent snake bites on the trail. However, it is crucial to remain prepared and educated about the local wildlife and habitats, and know how to respond in case of an emergency. They are usually made from tough materials, which make their fangs impenetrable. Hope our information is useful to you. If you have to traverse a fallen log, step on the log and then down instead of just over. Likewise, long pants will serve you well if you are hiking on trails that are home to snakes so that they can cover your leg to an extent, and your boots can protect your feet. These methods can introduce bacteria, increase the risk of infection, or cause further damage to the affected tissue. Hiking boots prevent snake bites on the trail, but it depends on the type of boots they are on and the size of the snake and its fang. Therefore, if you know youre going hiking in a snake-infested area, youre better off with snake-proof boots than just hiking boots. Why Are Stones Put Around Campfires? Take a few deep breaths, keep yourself composed, and slowly back away from the snake. Knowing how to identify venomous snakes can help you respond appropriately if you encounter one on the trail. The best thing you can do is wait for it to slither away or go around it if its possible. If you want to completely protect yourself from snake bites on the trail, you are better off hiking on trails void of snakes. That way, youll have a chance to see if you are about to step on a snake. Avoid further injury by staying away from the snake. Dispose of food waste and trash properly, and avoid leaving items strewn around your campsite that may provide shelter for snakes. If you use a knife to cut around the wound, you may sever vitaly important structures such as arteries, tendons, ligaments etc that could have much more serious consequences than the snake bite itself. Knowing how to determine the difference could make all the difference in avoiding a snakebite. Its actually quite possible (up to 30-40% chance according to Dr. Erickson) you experienced a dry bite, and youre not at all envenomated. While many snakes are harmless and even beneficial to the local ecosystem, a snake bite can quickly become a dangerous and life-threatening situation. Dont try to suck out the venom or cut the bite. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. Continue with Recommended Cookies. What's a rattlesnake doing on the trail? Staying on the trail reduces the likelihood of a snake bite and also helps protect the wildlife and ecosystems in the area. A study conducted by the University of Georgia found that snake repellents containing naphthalene and sulfur were effective in deterring rattlesnakes and copperheads.Another helpful item to carry while hiking is a walking stick. Snake Bite: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention - Verywell Health Hiking boots are not knee-high, so you cannot expect them to protect your leg up to that level. Dr. Erickson debunks the myth which claims its necessary to capture the snake that bit you and take it to the emergency room for identification purposes. Stay calm and immobilize the affected limb, 3. If you do, the snake may bite you. Snake Bites: How to Prevent and What to Do If Bitten Snake Bite - American Hiking Society As much as we all want to avoid the thought of a snake bite while out on a hiking adventure, the reality is it can happen to anyone. Therefore, snakes can bite through leather hiking boots unless they are snake-proof. Anti-venom is taken from animals such as horses and sheep, and when administered to humans, the person may experience an allergic reaction. If you are bitten by a snake remain calm and call for help. Educate yourself about snake behavior and first-aid, 1. Remember the movie Snakes on a Plane? Snakes often rely on their sense of vibration and movement to detect prey, so stomping or tapping a walking stick can help them identify humans as predators and avoid them.In conclusion, carrying items like snake repellent and a walking stick can provide extra protection against snakes while hiking. Avoid tall grassy areas that could conceal lurking snakes waiting to pounce at their prey; stick to commonly used paths or walkways.Some hikers might feel that trekking off-path offers new experiences and adrenaline rush; however, this is unwise when it comes to snakes. What To Do If Bitten By A Snake While Hiking - Mrs. Tactical Trail Safety for Snake Encounters and Snake Bites - PATH projects Moreover, hiking boots can deflect snake bites. Most bites occur when people get too close or try to touch or kill a snake. Remember, most snakes are shy and try to avoid contact with humans. Theyre typically black or dark brown in color, and often found around water. When stepping over logs or rocks, take a few extra seconds to check for any snake activity. However, quality hiking boots can deflect the effectiveness of snake bites. Maintaining distance and response tactics are essential aspects of avoiding snake bites while hiking. To avoid snake encounters while hiking, stay on designated trails and avoid tall grass or rock piles where snakes may be hiding. How To Avoid Snake Bites While Hiking? | Rilor Wilderness It is much more difficult to spot a snake in thick brush than it is to spot them on the hiking trail. In areas with tall grass or heavy underbrush, snakes are likely to seek shelter there for protection from predators such as birds of prey. Suction devices were originally thought to be effective by allowing a small amount of the injected venom to be removed from the wound. If the hiking boots materials are not thick or tough, snakes can bite through them and even penetrate your skin. Hiking boots toe caps can also prevent snake bites on the trail. Other parts of your hiking boots may leave you susceptible to snake bites depending on how tough they are. Do Not Apply Ice to The Snake Bite Applying ice to the wound, also known as cryotherapy, was at one point believed to be helpful. Rattlesnakes have distinct characteristics that make them easily recognizable on hiking trails, one of which is their signature rattle at the tip of their tail. Remove any jewelry, watches or tight clothing before swelling starts. In theUnited States, there are four venomous snakes that hikers should be aware of when out in the wilderness: the rattlesnake, the copperhead, the cottonmouth (also known as a water moccasin), and the coral snake. Whether or not a snake is scared of a human depends on its personality and past experiences with humans. Its important to know that most snakes will avoid confrontation and slither away if given the chance. The right footwear on the trail will prevent snake bites to a certain extent, which is why you should wear hiking boots often other than other footwear. So if youre hiking in an area where venomous snakes are known to live, make sure to take the necessary precautions and be alert. Head back to a location where you can find help as soon as possible. This means that most encounters can be resolved by giving the snake space to move away. One would be safe enough to assume every snake poses a risk and take precautions when approaching them but instead of unwarranted panic, one must learn which snakes are venomous.For instance, the gopher snake often gets mistaken for a rattlesnake because of its similar coloring. Stay on the trail and avoid grass, weeds, and brush. The dos and don'ts of snake safety - The United States Army Second, you can use the walking stick to gently probe the ground and bushes ahead of you, potentially alerting a snake to your presence and encouraging it to retreat. Remember, most snakes prefer to escape rather than attack humans.Secondly, maintain a safe distance between you and the snake. Should You Carry Anti-Venom on Your Hikes? Keep the bite below the level of the heart. Avoid putting your hands where you cannot see, 6. Most snakes will not become aggressive unless they feel threatened, so maintain your distance and allow the snake to move away on its own. Although originally, manufacturers didnt add these features to hiking boots to prevent snake bites, they can also serve that purpose. In this post, Im going to share with you, based on the advice from snake expert Dr. Tim Erickson, exactly what to do and what not to do if you get bitten by a snake. It is possible, but why dont you find out in this article? Therefore, avoiding hiking at night in areas that are known to contain snakes. There is no need to be afraid of snakes, as long as you take the necessary precautions and know your surroundings. If necessary, carry the person to safety. Other identifying features of a coral snake include: The short answer is: no. No one wants to encounter snakes on the trail, or worse, experience bites from one. They are most active in the early morning and late evening. However, if you insist on utilizing an anti-venom, Crofab, an anti-venom distribution company, has created a much more purified type of anti-venom that has successfully decreased the possibility of an allergic reaction. This includes staying away from rocky outcroppings, brush piles, and other cool, dimly-lit areas that snakes tend to favor.I once spoke with a seasoned hiker who shared an experience in which he encountered a timber rattlesnake on a trail in Tennessees Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Scrambling can be done without any rope or harnesses but requires using your hands to help you climb. For example, their material also needs to be strong, like leather or nylon. Stay safe out there! According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are approximately 5.4 million snake bites each year worldwide, resulting in up to 138,000 deaths. While you can never completely eliminate the risk of encountering a snake or suffering a snake bite while hiking, being informed and prepared is the best way to ensure a safe and enjoyable trek. If the snake were to attack you from above the area, they could dig their fangs directly into your skin. Just like checking weather conditions beforehand or making sure we've packed enough water, knowing what wildlife you may encounter outdoors is an important step to being prepared. Few things can ruin a hiking trip quite like an encounter with a venomous snake. Do not approach or attempt to touch the snake, as this can provoke an attack.Next, take note of the snakes appearance and behavior. Snakes with longer fangs can bite through hiking boots, especially if they are not snakeproof. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. However, no company pays us to share these products with you. Do not try to catch or kill the snake. If you are new to hiking, however, its important to understand the different types of hiking trails out there. Stay on the trail. Labored breathing (in extreme cases, breathing may stop altogether) Disturbed vision. These reptiles have thick bodies that measure up to 4 feet long with distinct rattle attachments at their tails. But he realized how easily the situation could have turned dangerous if he had not been adequately prepared or had not spotted the snake in time.Carrying a first aid kit is also crucial when hiking in areas populated by venomous snakes. It's worth saying up front that if you are bitten by a . Copyright 2023 All rights reserved by CAHikingAdventures.com. About Phillip About CHA Privacy Policy Contact. Hiking boots can prevent snake bites on the trail to an extent, but they are not completely protective. When hiking on a trail, its crucial to identify venomous snakes in order to avoid getting bitten. The key feature common among all these species is a triangular head and vertical slit pupils in their eyes.Similarly, in California, the western rattlesnake is one of the most common venomous snakes found in Southern Californias mountains other than the Mojave Desert rattlesnake and Sidewinder rattlesnake, which inhabit drier areas. As stated earlier, some snakes lay low on the trail, and this is why you have to be careful. Gaining a basic understanding of the local snake species and their preferred habitats is essential when planning your hike. The following actions will not help and could even make things worse: Do not use a tourniquet. However, if you are alone in the wilderness or far from access to medical care, you may have to hike out to the nearest phone or roadway for help. CAHikingAdventures.com assumes no liability or responsibility for the use and misuse of the information and data provided. Additionally, these chemicals may harm other wildlife or damage the environment if overused.Now that weve covered some essential snake avoidance techniques, lets explore some ways you can navigate snake habitats and dress appropriately to further reduce your chances of encountering these fascinating but potentially dangerous creatures. In addition, you should be careful sticking your hands around places on the trail so the snakes dont attack your hands instead of your feet. Although the mere thought of snakes conjures up alarm in many hikers regardless of their skill or comfort level in the outdoors, most snakes mean no harm if they are not provoked or threatened. Growing up in New York City, he gained an appreciation for getting lost in the wilderness, where he was able to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. One way to know which snakes are venomous is by being familiar with their physical appearance.Certain characteristics distinguish venomous snakes from non-venomous snakes. Dr. Erickson recommends looking for evidence of envenomation by checking for swelling (usually occurring in the arms), blistering, or lab abnormalities that reflect a systemic or total body envenomation prior to applying the anti-venom. With the proper precautions in place, you can fully enjoy the beauty and adventure that hiking has to offer. By wearing thick leather boots or hiking shoes with ankle support, you can reduce the risk of snake bites significantly. If you accidentally step too close to a snake, take at least two giant steps backwards to get out of the snakes reach. The fangs of a dead snake can still inject venom. In most situations a tourniquet will result in more damage to the afflicted area via over constriction of the limb, and reduce healing. Remember that snakes can easily blend in with their surroundings, so always exercise caution. Be aware of your surroundings and know how to identify venomous snakes. Its also a good idea to tuck your pants into your socks to help seal out any potential intruders.If possible, consider carrying a walking stick or other long object when hiking so you can search for snakes ahead of you and gently prod them out of the way if necessary. Stay calm and cool. What to do if you see a rattlesnake on a hike? Wear long pants and boots, make noise while you hike to alert snakes to your presence and give them time to move away, and carry a hiking stick or trekking poles to help you navigate difficult terrain. Mostly, people wear them for the support they provide on the trail, but they can do more than that on the trail, especially now that snakes are involved. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Unfortunately, Crofab is quite pricey, costing as high as a few hundred dollars per dose. Most snakes are harmless and the majority of snakebites are not fatal. We are not professionals and do not give professional advice. Before embarking on your hike, familiarize yourself with the habits and behaviors of snakes native to the area. That said, its always important to be aware of your surroundings and know how to identify venomous snakes just in case. David enjoys the peace and solitude that nature provides, and finds solace in the beauty of the natural world. Rattlesnakes can't regulate their temperatures, so they look for sunny spots to warm up after a cool night. Of course, there are always exceptions to this rule, so its always best to be aware of the specific species of snake youre bound to find depending on your trail. immobilize the affected limb and keep it below the level of the heart. The professionals at the nearest hospital will be able to identify the snake based on the habitat you were hiking in the moment you were bitten. Theyre typically red, yellow, and black in color, and can be identified by their bright red and yellow bands. Snakes, as cold-blooded creatures, are sensitive to changes in temperature and climate. And with rubber as the soles, they can prevent snake bites to an extent. Snakes arent a significant threat in general, and most people can easily outrun them.
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