East Bay officials warn of rattlesnakes as warm weather returns
(KRON) — As wonderful, warm days return to the Bay Area and more people are venturing outdoors, park officials in the East Bay are reminding visitors to be aware of their surroundings. Rattlesnakes are becoming more active as they emerge from winter hibernation.
“Rattlesnakes are more active in warm weather, which can lead to more encounters with humans and dogs, especially along trails and roads,” an advisory sent out Tuesday from the East Bay Regional Park District said. “Visitors are encouraged to keep snake safety precautions in mind when visiting East Bay Regional Parks throughout spring, summer and fall seasons.”
Bee colony stolen from Oakland beekeeper
Park officials offer several tips to remain safe from potential rattlesnake encounters, including scanning the ground ahead, avoiding walking in tall grass, looking carefully around logs and rocks before sitting down, and listening to the buzz of a rattlesnake’s rattle. Dogs should also be kept on a leash.
If a rattlesnake is spotted while out and about, officials said it is safest to simply leave it alone. All of California’s native wildlife is protected by law, and collecting, killing or removing the snakes is illegal. “Move carefully and slowly away or around it while giving it plenty of space,” park officials recommend.
Photo: East Bay Regional Park District Photo: East Bay Regional Park District
What to do if bitten by a snake, according to officials:
If bitten by a rattlesnake, stay calm and have someone call 911. Remain calm by lying down with the affected limb lower than the heart. Getting medical attention quickly is critical – do not use tourniquets, “sucking,” or snake bite kits. If you are by yourself, walk calmly to the nearest source of help to dial 911. Do not run.
If bitten by any other type of snake, wash the wound with soap and water or an antiseptic and seek medical attention.
If you are unsure what kind of snake bit you, check the bite for two puncture marks (in rare cases one puncture mark) associated with intense, burning pain. This is typical of a rattlesnake bite. Other snakebites may leave multiple teeth marks without associated burning pain. You do not need to identify the specific type of rattlesnake to receive the correct antivenom.
Last year in June, a 7-year-old boy was seriously injured after authorities believed he was bitten by a rattlesnake at Mount Diablo State Park.
Snakes are an important part of the natural environment, park officials said, and are the prime contributors in controlling rodent and reptile populations. “Enjoy them from afar and leave them where they are found,” the district said.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
