While they may be small, many can pack a big punch that can send you to the hospital, or worse.

Do not walk in tall grass at night. Watch your step. EMERGENCY SITUATION: You’re hiking on remote national park land when you see a rattlesnake blocking the trail just ahead of you.What do you do? So it’s important to watch where you step while hiking or where you reach when climbing.

If it hasn’t left, I take a picture with my phone. Do not approach the snake or try to injure or kill the snake. Step on, not over, large rocks or logs.

Stay on established trails.

RELATED: 8 Local Summer Hiking Trails You Need to Explore. So respect the wildlife wherever you are and you will most likely be more than fine while hiking. Snake Bite Treatment If a snake bites you or another hiking partner: Infection is a concern, whether venomous or not - get medical help. Make sure you can see where you plan to step or put your hands. Let them know that many snake bites are dry. Most rattlesnakes prefer hot environments, with some preferring desert climates but others, such as the Eastern Diamondback, prefer a moist climate. Wear long pants and sturdy shoes. If you see a snake on the trail and you aren’t sure if it’s venomous or not, it’s best to be safe and leave it alone by moving away slowly. Truthfully, it’s best to give any snake a wide berth.

• Watch where you’re placing your feet, be extra aware on rocky, sunny areas, pockets of leaves and logs across the trail. SOLUTION: You could try negotiation, but that probably won’t work.
If the snake does attack it might go for the pole instead of your leg.

Let them know that many snake bites are dry. If you are lucky enough to see a snake while hiking, just think, for every snake you saw, there were probably a dozen more you didn’t… Last modified: June 25, 2017 Previous Story My 30 day walking challenge – Week one review

You are most likely to encounter rattlesnakes when you are hiking, climbing, camping, or even walking to see a tourist monument. Be Aware. 2. Venomous snakes, like the rattlesnakes, have a wide head and thick body. If you see a snake while hiking or running, do not panic! Perhaps one of the best things you can do while hiking is to be aware of your surroundings. They just want to stay safe, just like you do. For the simple reason that you are more likely to see snakes with plenty of time to avoid them. You want to avoid putting the snake in a position where it feels trapped or more threatened than it already is. Snake Bite Treatment If a snake bites you or another hiking partner: Infection is a concern, whether venomous or not - get medical help. Avoid walking through tall grass unless you can clearly see the ground. That being said, snakes will protect themselves if the need Once the snake is located, move away slowly with no sudden movements. What should you do if you see a rattlesnake while hiking? Quick tips for separating the myths from the facts — fast. Plus, if the animal gets aggressive, it will be more likely to strike the trekking poles instead of you. What to do if you encounter a snake; If you come across a rattlesnake keep your distance, they can strike a distance of half their own length. If it already slithered off into its home, I try to remember patterns to help the medical professionals decide which snake it was that bit me. How Do You Avoid Snake Bites While Hiking? Here are a few ways to reduce the risks of snake bites while trail running: • Be aware that there could be snakes where you’re running.

Sure, I knew how to avoid them but I didn’t know what to do when bitten. He has given permission for Hike it Baby to reprint here to share the information he found about snake bites and how to treat them on the trail. Be aware of your surroundings. Clean and dress the puncture wound. If you …

Help the victim remain calm to slow the spread of venom. Preventing a snake bite is obviously better than dealing with a snake bite. (10+ Safety Tips) Snakes are one of the dangers that many hikers are very nervous about and would rather avoid altogether. "Simply left alone, snakes will continue on with their nomadic lifestyles," Phillip says. Stick to trails, avoid tall grass and heavy underbrush where snakes may shelter out of the heat.

Snakes will generally leave you alone if they are not provoked. That being said, they don’t want to hurt you. Snakes aren’t interested in biting hikers. Listening for the warning sound of a rattler can alert you to the snake’s presence and save you from a trip to the ER.

Don’t approach, pick up, or harass a snake if you do see … Slowly move away from the snake.

If you go cross-country, you could step on a snake … Non-venomous snakes are usually more slender and have a narrow head. What to do if you encounter a snake; If you come across a rattlesnake keep your distance, they can strike a distance of half their own length.
2. Hike with a hiking pole or staff. Snake Bites While Hiking: What To Do - Hike it Baby December 19, 2016 This article was written by Floris Gierman for the Flotography site.