If you see a snake on the trail or near it, make sure to give it plenty of space. When you see a snake in your yard, don't approach it. If you are new to hiking, however, its important to understand the different types of hiking trails out there. Yes, carrying certain items with you while hiking can help deter snakes from approaching. Manage Settings Very few people people are actually at risk of even encountering a snake with venom powerful enough to kill. Theyre easily recognizable by their trademark rattle at the end of their tail. Most snakes are harmless and the majority of snakebites are not fatal. Sure, hiking boots protect you on the trail from insects, debris, and critters, but do they protect against snake bites? When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Spring and Fall: Active and Mating Seasons, 1. The slower and calmer the movements, the better it is for avoiding confrontation.Hiking poles are essential gear that could come in handy during unexpected snake encounters. Arizona Hikers' Guide to Rattlesnake Safety Watch where you step and where you sit when outdoors. Hiking boots toe caps can also prevent snake bites on the trail. And lower designs leave the other parts susceptible to snake bites. How can you avoid such creepy occurrences? These products contain natural or synthetic ingredients that emit an odor which snakes find repulsive. Do not move the injured area. It is much more difficult to spot a snake in thick brush than it is to spot them on the hiking trail. Stay on the beaten path as much as possible. Stay on the trail. Maintaining distance and response tactics are essential aspects of avoiding snake bites while hiking. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Our articles are written by professional writers as well as hikers. There is no need to be afraid of snakes, as long as you take the necessary precautions and know your surroundings. The main purpose of toe caps in hiking boots is to prevent impacts on the toes, but they can also prevent snake bites in that area. Minimize activity if possible. You want to restrict movement as much as possible to decrease your heart rate. No, its not just to make the campfire look cool (although lets be honest, it does add some serious rustic vibes to the atmosphere). However, its essential to be prepared for any snake encounters by knowing the correct steps to take. Some people believe that hiking boots offer some protection against snake bites, while others claim that they provide no real protection at all. Usually, their fangs may not go beyond the rubber sole enough to reach your skin. Rattlesnakes can't regulate their temperatures, so they look for sunny spots to warm up after a cool night. For the most part, snakes just want to mind their own business and would rather not have to deal with us. These precautionary measures require attentiveness, proper gear, and understanding of snake behavior. Home Trip Ideas Outdoor & Adventure Tips for Avoiding a Snakebite While Hiking Checubus / Shutterstock Tips for Avoiding a Snakebite While Hiking Minimize your chances of falling victim to a pair of fangs and know what to do if the worst happens with these simple precautions. Make a little noise as you hike to give the snake a chance to crawl away. 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. Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: HikersDaily is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Head back to a location where you can find help as soon as possible. * Do not apply ice or cold compresses to a snake bite. Rattlesnakes are typically brown or black in color, but can also be green, gray, or red, They typically coil up when theyre threatened, They typically have a dark banded pattern, They are typically multi-colored and striped. How to Avoid Snakes While Hiking - Hiking Gear Lab Once you gather yourself let other hikers get help while you remain situated. So if youre looking for a good time to hike to avoid snakes on your trail, try planning your trip during the afternoon hours. But, of course, snakes are not on every trail you hike, but they give hikers the jitters. Observing an insect or an animal in its own natural habitat can make for a memorable hiking experience. Keep your hands and feet where you can see them. Venomous Snakes while Hiking: 5 Tips on How to stay safe - OutdoorRates Use caution when picking anything off the ground - wood, rocks, even your shoes or pack after it has sat for awhile. Dr. Erickson emphasized this point by stating that the human mouth contains more bacteria than the snakes mouth and could potentially cause more harm to the wound. 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. What time of day are snakes the most active? Ensure that youre at least three feet away from a non-venomous snake and ten steps away from a venomous one. If you wish to see Dr. Erickson speak about snake bites, you can do so here. React The Right Way What To Do If You Get Bitten By Poisonous Snake While Hiking Get The Right Treatment Maintain Your Cool Protect Your Heart Avoid Squeezing The Bitten Spot Don't Try To Treat It Are Hiking Boots Snake-Proof? Advertisement. Amazon Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. If you want to completely protect yourself from snake bites on the trail, you are better off hiking on trails void of snakes. Most bites occur when people get too close or try to touch or kill a snake. The following actions will not help and could even make things worse: Do not use a tourniquet. Additionally, be sure to stop and listen for warning signals, such as the telltale rattle of a rattlesnake. This knowledge can also be applied to running a business identifying and targeting the right audience is essential for success. Redness and swelling around the bite. Stay calm and cool. After many years of exploring amazing and hidden places, I thought Id share them with you. By staying aware of the environment around you and keeping your distance if needed,you reduce your chance of encountering a snake whilst hiking. Keep the children away from tall grass areas, and teach them to stay on the trail when hiking. If the hiking boots materials are not thick or tough, snakes can bite through them and even penetrate your skin. As opposed to popular belief that you can tell venomous snakes from their color of head shapes, it is not always so. Cover the bite with a bandage. While hiking, pay close attention to your surroundings. Yes, on a leash What can possibly be better than Im Phillip, and just like you, I feel very passionate about California and the outdoors. A rattlesnake will NOT always rattle before it strikes. If you have any ideas, please feel free to contact us, we greatly appreciate your comments. Some snakes prefer rocky terrain or bodies of water, while others reside in underground burrows or tree hollows. What To Do If Bitten By A Snake While Hiking - Mrs. Tactical Although you shouldnt be fearful of snakes while hiking, your number one priority should be to avoid snakes while hiking in the first place, primarily if venomous snakes are known to roam the area. Once again, he reiterated, the best thing you can do if you get bit in the wild is to dial 911 and/or get to the hospital immediately. 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. The same study by AGFD revealed that snake bite incidents frequently occurred when victims were approaching too close or trying to handle them nearly two-thirds of all bites were on the hands or arms. For the most part, yes. To prevent a snake from biting your feet or legs, wear loose, long pants and high, thick leather or rubber boots when walking through snake-prone areas. However, small rattlesnakes with small fangs may not be able to bite through leather hiking boots, but it may not be the same for large rattlesnakes. Believe it or not, most snake species are typically more active when its not too hot out, and they can find cooler places to hide. Remember, most snakes prefer to escape rather than attack humans.Secondly, maintain a safe distance between you and the snake. Dont wait for symptoms to appear, as this can be life-threatening. Stay safe out there! Please do not try to capture the snake. 1 Porta Potty Available Dogs Allowed? Protecting Children from Snakebites When Hiking Not only do they help with balance on rough terrain, but they also create noise and vibrations that can alert snakes to your presence and give them time to move out of the way.Some argue that attempting to use repellents or other chemical deterrents is not an effective way to avoid snakes while hiking. If you see a snake, give it a wide berth and avoid sudden movements. Remember to wear proper attire such as hiking boots and long pants, watch where you step, listen for rustling sounds, and avoid reaching into bushes or crevices blindly. Avoid further injury by staying away from the snake. Hike with others if you can, which helps to discourage wildlife encounters. As Amazon Associates, we are disclosing this information in accordance with Amazons Program Policies and the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR Rules. Look around before you sit down. 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. Snakes tend to hide in tall grasses, bushes, and rocks, so wearing high boots and long pants can help prevent their venomous fangs from reaching your skin.According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 7,000 people are bitten by venomous snakes every year in the United States alone. Among these incidents, approximately 96% occur outdoors, primarily in a wilderness setting. Do not elevate. (Mystery Solved), Trekking vs Hiking: Differences And Similarities, How to Get Campfire Smell Out Of Your Hair, Hiking Boots Ankle Support Myth: Debunked, The Different Types Of Hiking Trails (In-Depth Guide). Continue with Recommended Cookies. How To Treat A Snake Bite While Hiking - Out For Adventure Those features are: Tall uppers are part of the hiking boot design, and they help with ankle support and comfort on the trail. This is why hikers need to be careful to prevent snake bites. The information is drawn from practical experience with references on the internet. On one hand, individuals argue that relocating poisonous snakes ultimately helps protect human lives by removing potential threats out of their natural environment. By familiarizing yourself with local snake species, their habitats, and behaviors, and taking precautionary measures, you can effectively minimize your chance of a dangerous snake encounter during your outdoor adventures. Place the end of the bandage on the skin and, by overlapping technique, wrap the skin. The rattlesnake is one of the most common and easily identifiable venomous snakes in North America. Remove any jewelry or tight-fitting clothing in case of swelling. Ensure that all trash, especially food waste, is securely stored and disposed of in designated areas. Snakes often hide under logs, large rocks, or other debris to seek shelter from extreme temperatures or to hide from predators. How to Avoid Snakes While Hiking - Tales of a Mountain Mama How To Prevent Snake Bites While Hiking - All Animals Guide Wear boots and long pants to help protect your legs. Life goes by fast so get out there and enjoy it. Stop and give it some time and space to slither off, making sure it has actually moved away and not simply curled up under a log or behind a rock, and you'll be able to pass go and collect your $200 by NOT visiting the emergency room that day. That might lead to an infection. How To Avoid Snakes While Hiking: The Definitive Guide Few things can ruin a hiking trip quite like an encounter with a venomous snake. Snakes are actually relatively slow, especially when compared to other animals. Some of the links on CAHikingAdventures.com and CAHikingAdventures media are affiliate links with Amazon. Snakes can strike faster and farther than you might think - some nearly half their body length. If possible, take these steps while waiting for medical help: Move far away from the snake. With just a little knowledge and some common sense, it can be a safe experience, too. The shape of their head and eyes, as well as the presence of visible fangs, are some of these features. * Do not apply a tourniquet. Dont tread or step into places outdoors that you cant see. They can strike at a distance of half their body length. Snakes tend to be less active during the winter months, as many species undergo brumation a hibernation-like state. Doing so might lead them into situations where they could get bitten by venomous snakes without proper medical assistance or means of communication.With these few tips in mind, we hope you feel more confident about navigating hiking trails and avoiding snake bites while enjoying nature. And if you must hike on those trails, wear boots that are snake-proof. Avoid being bitten Leave snakes alone. Hiking with a partner is not only more enjoyable but also safer in the event of a snake bite. If you are camping during your hike, maintain a clean and organized campsite to prevent attraction to wildlife, including snakes. Snake Bite - American Hiking Society Your hike may be through great snake habitat, and the snakes you encounter could be venomous or non-venomous. Keep your campsite clean and organized, 9. In case you were not around when a person was bitten you should look for signs of the two fangs bite mark. With a little bit of knowledge and preparation, you can easily avoid snakes while hiking. If you are near a snake and it feels scared or threatened, it may act aggressively or flee. Of those bites, around 15-20% are caused by venomous snakes.If you suspect that the snake is venomous or if you have been bitten, seek medical attention immediately. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Then, remove any jewelry or clothing that might restrict blood flow. Preventing Snake Bites While Hiking (My #1 Safety Tip) Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Most snakes are diurnal, which means they are most active during the day. Snakes are vital predators in their ecosystems, playing critical roles in maintaining biodiversity and controlling populations of prey species.Knowing what to do if you get bitten by a snake is crucially important as well. Now, imagine youre hiking and loving the beauty of nature, only to find yourself in a sequel called Snakes on a Trail. A bare sunny trail or open space is a perfect sunning spot, so stay alert when walking in the cooler parts of the day. Hiking Snake Bite Prevention Youre enjoying your trek through the wilderness when suddenly something slithers across your trail: a snake. Miles: 3 Time: 1 Hour Difficulty: Easy Season: Late Spring Elevation Gain: 617 ft Max Elevation: 2352 ft Trail Type: Out & Back Parking Lot: Dirt Lot, Fits 20 Cars Restrooms? But, it depends on the type of boots they are, how large the snake is, and the size of their fangs. Make sure that both you and your hiking partner know the proper procedures for dealing with a snake bite, and always carry a form of communication, like a cell phone or a whistle, to signal for help in case of an emergency. 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. Can you outrun a snake? As such, the best tactic is to maintain a safe distance from them and avoid unnecessary risks. The following are some of the recommended actions to take when encountering a snake on your hike.Firstly, stay calm and avoid panicking. Find out the probability of coming across a snake on the trail. The best way to respond to such a situation is to be prepared and take action immediately. We see this a lot in the movies, but its not helpful. The best thing you can do is wait for it to slither away or go around it if its possible. They typically travel between 1 to 3 miles per hour, so if youre running at full speed, you should be able to outrun them. Venomous Snake Sign Stick to the Trail Snakes prefer quiet secluded areas, not popular trails. Tips for Avoiding a Snakebite While Hiking | Frommer's For example, their material also needs to be strong, like leather or nylon. The heat of the day is not a good time to do any rock scrambling in areas with snakes. First, freeze in place and slowly back away from the snake until you are at a safe distance. Snakes can be found in a wide range of ecosystems, such as grasslands, forests, swamps, and deserts. In my experience, snakes are less likely to be found on frequently traveled trails. Suction devices were originally thought to be effective by allowing a small amount of the injected venom to be removed from the wound. They will be ahead of you and to the sides, allowing snakes to strike them instead of you. Hence, its best to give anti-venom to people at a hospital setting. Trail Safety for Snake Encounters and Snake Bites - PATH projects If a snake has bitten you, don't do anything to try to suck out its venom or move the injured area around too much. 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. 5. remain calm and avoid moving around too much, as movement will speed up the spread of venom in your body. Log enough miles hiking, and youre bound to see a snake or two. 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. During the hot summer months, snakes may seek shelter from the intense heat. Mid-cut and high-cut hiking boots have taller uppers than hiking shoes, which are more protective. Hiking boots with leather or nylon material can help to protect your feet from snake fangs. The Ultimate Guide to Sports Fishing: Tips and Tricks for a Successful Catch. Sometimes, they even notify people of their presence through hisses, huffs, or rattling, and other times, they dont. Subscribe to the monthly edition of Paperless Trail. Theyre typically brown or reddish in color, and can be identified by their copper-colored head. Snakes are more active at night. Then it is probably not poisonous (although some species may still . In most situations a tourniquet will result in more damage to the afflicted area via over constriction of the limb, and reduce healing. Hiking boots with thick layers are more likely to prevent or reduce snake bites impact. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. January 25, 2022 by Jay Gatz On a hiking trail, you are likely to come across different creatures, one of which is snakes. Another hiking boot feature that prevents snake bites is their upper materials. All Rights Reserved, 9mm Carbine Buy Now? By being vigilant of your surroundings and knowing what times of day snakes are most active, you can significantly reduce the risk of a dangerous encounter with these fascinating creatures. This can penetrate boots unless they are snakeproof boots, and some can reach the skin beneath the layers of hiking boots. Have you ever wondered why people put stones around campfires? However, there are a few types of snakes that can move a bit faster. However, some species are crepuscular or nocturnal, which means they are most active at dawn, dusk, or during the night.According to the research conducted by the University of Georgia, snakes are most active during the warmer months of the year, from April to September. The only way rubber soles may not be effective is if snakes attack you from other places apart from the uppers. Use trek poles or walking stick. Clean the bite with soap and water. When administering Crofab, the objective is to treat the venom not the individual. 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. When hiking during summer, it is crucial to pay extra attention when exploring these potential hiding spots. However, we do personally recommend all of the products linked on this website. Therefore, if you know youre going hiking in a snake-infested area, youre better off with snake-proof boots than just hiking boots. Here are a few tips for avoiding snakes while hiking: There is no definitive answer to this question. Look out for potential snake hiding spots, such as logs, rock piles, tall grass, and underbrush. Why Are Stones Put Around Campfires? Before embarking on your hike, familiarize yourself with the habits and behaviors of snakes native to the area. Knowing how to determine the difference could make all the difference in avoiding a snakebite. Understanding the behaviors and habitats of snakes is crucial when it comes to preventing encounters with these creatures. Light materials cannot do much to hold snake fangs, but you get a bit of protection with thicker and tougher materials. These toe caps are made from composite materials like heavy-duty plastic, rubber, or carbon fiber. Listen to mysterious rustles and be aware of movement in the brush. Hikers, who are constantly exploring new paths and interacting with nature, must always be aware of their surroundings and prioritize safety in order to minimize the risk of a snake bite. Do not try to remove the venom yourself. 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. Continue with Recommended Cookies. Therefore, you are more likely to find them on the trail early in the morning or evening. Preventing Snake Bites While in the outdoors, do not pester, bother, or provoke snakes or other animals as you are in their territory. If necessary, wait for the snake to move off the trail while keeping a watchful eye on its location.Some hikers might feel tempted to capture or kill snakes they encounter on their paths. Take a few deep breaths, keep yourself composed, and slowly back away from the snake. Because alcohol thins the blood, a wound will bleed more than necessary with alcohol in the bloodstream. 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. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. But you cannot always count on your boots to protect you completely from snake bites, so you have to play your part as well. In areas with tall grass or heavy underbrush, snakes are likely to seek shelter there for protection from predators such as birds of prey. However, hiking boots with high-cut designs can surely protect your leg up to the level above your ankle. Snakes on a Trail: Tips for Hiking in Rattlesnake Country - California In other words, a child would receive the same dosage of antivenom as an adult because the snake releases the same amount of venom regardless of the size of the person. When hiking on a trail, its crucial to identify venomous snakes in order to avoid getting bitten. This means you should be extra careful where you place your hands and feet when scrambling up any steep sections on a trail. Articles are our property and product, we stand by them at all times to ensure the best quality for you. You may also hear rustling or hissing sounds if a snake is nearby. When you step off the path, you may be unintentionally entering a snakes territory, which increases your chances of an encounter. If you accidentally step too close to a snake, take at least two giant steps backwards to get out of the snakes reach. Snakes, as cold-blooded creatures, are sensitive to changes in temperature and climate. They are tough and thick and can deflect snake fangs to a large extent. He had been wearing long pants, sturdy boots, and carrying trekking poles at the time and was able to cautiously walk around the snake without incident. 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. Step 3: If there are no scales on its head or neck, or if they are broken off. David Martirosian is an avid hiker and nature lover. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. 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. In addition, you need hiking boots that protect not just your feet but also some parts of your legs. When it comes to avoiding snakes while hiking, there are some techniques you can use to lower your chances of encountering them. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Time is of the essence when dealing with a snake bite. If you have to traverse a fallen log, step on the log and then down instead of just over. | Top 19 Best Solutions. 1 Identify rattlesnakes in the wild. However, the only exception to this rule is if youre located somewhere extremely remote. Yes, its as scary as it sounds! To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. If you do, the snake may bite you. Several precautions can be taken to reduce the risk of encountering a snake and getting bitten during a hike. What To Do If You Are Bitten By A Snake While Hiking? As stated earlier, some snakes lay low on the trail, and this is why you have to be careful. Additionally, if you must apply a tourniquet, do so loosely. 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. 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.
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