While most snakes will try to avoid contact with humans and would rather flee than attack, it is important to know how to prevent snake bites when out in nature or even around your home. Many snakes are not poisonous, but being bitten by an animal can cause an infection and is something to be avoided.
Steps
Step 1. Learn which snakes live in the area you are visiting and study their habits before exploring
When you learn about snakes in the area where you live or explore, you understand which ones are poisonous and which ones are not. Again, while you certainly want to avoid all snake bites, it is important to understand the differences and levels of urgency in treating both types of bites
Step 2. Avoid areas with tall grass and bushes
Try to follow paths or clean areas where you can see your footsteps. If you have to walk in tall grass, use a cane to test the area before going up.
Step 3. Resist the urge to put a hand or foot in a hollow or hole
Snakes often curl up in dark places such as holes in fallen lumber or in hidden spots among boulders. Watch your steps carefully or where you put your hands, to avoid snake bites. This is especially true when climbing or exploring caves.
Step 4. Know that snakes can climb trees
Be cautious when walking under hanging branches or when climbing a tree, you might mistake a snake for a branch.
Step 5. Use protective clothing when exploring
Wear boots and long pants.
Step 6. Set up your tent in areas where snakes are unlikely to be found
Do not camp near large logs, rocky areas or tall grass. Snakes are usually nocturnal so you need to be especially careful during the night. Close the curtain tightly and put your boots or shoes inside. Sleep on a cot whenever possible. Use a flashlight to check inside your shoes and the tent floor before you venture outside at night to use the portable toilet.
Step 7. Be cautious when swimming or fishing in lakes and rivers, especially after heavy rain
Water snakes are poisonous and you may need immediate help if bitten.
Step 8. Make sure your family and pets are protected from snakes around your home
- Keep your yard and adjacent properties well mowed. Cut hedges to discourage snakes from residing near your home.
- Keep children away from areas where snakes may be hiding, such as overgrown areas where there is tall grass and bushes.
- Use a tool when collecting firewood from an outdoor stack or when working with brushes or lumber.
- Use extreme caution in the summer during drought conditions. Snakes will seek water from the garden hose, pool, or under the air conditioning unit.
Step 9. If you own a snake, take precautions to avoid bites
- Many bites happen when the snake feeds. Use a special tool to avoid handling the snake with your hands.
- Choose a docile snake. Grain snakes and ball pythons have a reputation for biting little.
- Do not touch the snake after touching the prey, like a mouse, while the smell is still on your hands.
Step 10. Be careful when approaching a snake that you think is dead
Snakes that have recently been killed can still move and bite. Also, a snake might appear dead but simply be lying in the sun.
