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.