Spring is the time when flowers are blooming, the bees are humming, the birds are singing and the ssssnakes are slithering.

What should you do if you or a family member comes across a snake?

• Make no sudden or aggressive movements. The snake will not "strike" unless you annoy it.
• Back away from the snake slowly.

What should you do if you or someone else is bitten?

• Try to remain calm. Walk, don't run for assistance.
• Keep affected area lower than your heart. Have someone call 9-1-1 for emergency assistance.
• Get a description of the snake that bit you and give that information to emergency personnel.
• Do not cut the affected area in an attempt to remove the venom.

Who do you call for removal?

If you have identified a rattlesnake (look for a rattle) that has entered your property and it poses a threat to life, call 760-839-4722 for response by the Fire Department and be prepared to tell the firefighters where it was last seen. If a person has been bitten by a rattlesnake, however, call 9-1-1 immediately.

For specific information on rattlesnake safety, please see the Escondido Fire Department's Web site, Rattlesnake Safety.