It’s completely normal for most hikers to come across several rattlesnakes on the go. While they don’t generally pose a big threat if you’re not in their way, however, one can never be too much careful. That’s why it’s important for hikers, especially beginners to know how to prevent snake bites while hiking so that you don’t have to meet a misfortune.
So, if you too are planning your next hiking trip and want to be fully prepared for what to expect on your way, keep reading this blog post. We’ve outlined some useful tips and tricks that may help you prevent snake bites on your hiking journey, so without any further ado, let’s begin.
Why Are Snakes More Active in the Summer?
You’re more likely to encounter snakes in the summertime because that’s when they’re more active. Snakes usually hibernate during the winter, but when the weather gets warm, they come out to look for food. And since they’re cold-blooded, the warmer the weather is, the more active they are.
What Are the Most Common Snakes in the Area?
Before you head out for your hike, it’s important to learn about the snakes that live in the area. There are a few different types of snakes that you’re likely to encounter, and it’s helpful to know how to identify them.
The most common snakes in this area are the copperhead and the rattlesnake.
- The copperhead is a small snake, and it’s easily identifiable by its copper-colored head.
- The rattlesnake is the biggest snake in this area, and it has a rattle on its tail to warn predators of its presence.
If you see a snake while you’re hiking, stay calm and slowly back away. Don’t try to touch or kill the snake, because that could enrage it and make it more likely to bite. And if you are bitten by a snake, seek medical attention right away.
What Are the Symptoms of a Snake Bite?
If you’re hiking in an area where there’s a risk of snake bites, it’s important to know what the symptoms are. That way, if you do get bitten, you’ll be able to get medical help right away.
Here are some of the most common symptoms:
- Sudden pain at the site of the bite
- Burning sensation
- Numbness
- Paralysis
- Difficulty breathing
- Bleeding from the wound
Tips and Tricks for Avoiding Snake Bites While Hiking
There are a few things you can do to prevent snake bites while hiking.
Wear Protective Clothing
Wearing protective clothing, such as snake gaiters, can help to prevent snake bites. These gaiters are made of heavy-duty fabric and fit over your shoes and pants, protecting your legs and feet from snakes.
Choose the Right Shoes
Another way to prevent snake bites is to choose the right shoes. Shoes with a solid sole and good traction are ideal, as they will help you to stay on your feet if you encounter a snake on the trail.
Don’t Mess with a Sleeping Snake
If you do happen to see a snake on the trail, it is best to avoid it. Do not try to touch or move the snake, as this could provoke it and lead to a bite. Instead, try to walk around the snake or go back the way you came.
If you are bitten by a snake, it is important to stay calm and seek medical help as soon as possible. Do not try to treat the bite yourself, as this could make the situation worse.
Stay on the Track as Much as you can
Hiking in an area that is known to have snakes is always a risk, but there are a few things you can do to minimize that risk. Try to stay on track as much as possible and avoid hiking through tall grass or areas with a lot of clutter. If you must hike through these areas, be sure to be alert and watch where you are walking.
It’s also better to avoid remote areas while hiking and opt for the ones that have a bit more population. You must also try to hike in groups rather than going on your own so that if anything happens, there are people that can help you.
Always carry a First Aid Kit
Last but not the least, one of the best decisions you can make to prevent snake bites is to carry a first aid kit with you always, wherever you go. So that even if you come across a snake and it tries to bite you, you’ll have all the essentials by your side to give yourself an emergency treatment before the help arrives.
What to Do if You Are Bitten by a Snake
Let’s say you’re out hiking and you encounter a snake. What do you do if it bites you?
- The first thing you need to do is stay calm. Panicking will only make things worse. Next, try to identify the snake.
- If you can, take a picture of it or try to remember what it looks like. This is important for medical professionals, who will need to know what kind of snake bit you in order to administer the right treatment.
- If the snake is venomous, the next step is to start treatment as soon as possible. This usually involves removing all of the clothes that the bite occurred on and wrapping the wound tightly in order to reduce the amount of venom that enters your system.
- Finally, get yourself to the hospital as soon as possible. Don’t try to drive yourself—you could end up making things worse.
Conclusion
When you’re hiking, there are a few key things you can do to help prevent snake bites. First and foremost, always be aware of your surroundings and what could be causing a potential hazard. If you’re in an area where snakes are known to live, make sure to stay on the trails and avoid tall grass and leaf piles.
It’s also a good idea to wear boots and long pants when hiking, as well as a sturdy pair of gloves. If you do happen to come across a snake, never try to touch or pick it up – instead, back away slowly and call for help. We hope that this guide has helped you answer your questions and that now you’re able to keep yourselves from snake bites while you hit the track if you have anything to ask, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Safe Hiking!