While doing some hill training for road cycling, at about 20 mph, I suddenly had my first snake encounter of the season.  Fortunately, or unfortunately depending on your point of view, I've encountered many different types of snakes so I didn't panic and crash my bike into a heap and land on the snake.  It was just a harmless water snake but the sight of any snake stretched out across your path of travel can get you heart pumping for a second.  I've learned to let them have their space ….. As long as it doesn't overlap with my space.  Since it's that time of year for 'old no-shoulders' to start crawling around, I want to leave my fellow outdoor enthusiasts with a few Snake Safety Tips as you venture into the outdoors.  Be Safe.  

Also, statistics say that about 20% of people have a severe fear of snakes.  So, I decided to avoid posting a real snake photo as the title image.  However,  there are actual photos below which are preceded by a caution statement.  For you 20% please read on until you see the warning.  Hopefully this bit of information can help alleviate some of your fears. 

Precautions
    • First, It’s a great idea to be familiar with the poisonous species of snakes in your area. Being able to identify a snake as venomous can be important.
    • Educate your children about outdoor safety regarding snakes as well.
    • Never go barefoot or wear sandals when walking through wild areas.
    • When hiking, stick to well-used trails if at all possible.
    • When fishing or boating, remember snakes can swim too.
    • Avoid tall grass, weeds and heavy underbrush where snakes may hide during the day.
    • Look at your feet to watch where you step and do not put your foot in or near a crevice.
    • When camping, be mindful of where you setup your tent.  Keeping the tips above in mind.
    • Do not step or put your hands where you cannot see.
    • Snakes roam at night too so void wandering around in the dark.  Use a headlamp.
    • If a fallen tree or large rock is in your path, step up onto it instead of over it, as there may be a snake on the other side.
    • Be especially careful when climbing rocks or gathering firewood.
    • Check out stumps or logs before sitting down.
    • Be careful if you have to turn over rocks or logs.  Roll it toward you, giving anything beneath it the opportunity to escape away from you.
    • Avoid approaching any snake you cannot positively identify as a safe species.

Snake Bite First Aid

If you or someone else is bitten:

DON’T 
    • Do not make incisions over the bite wound.
    • Do not restrict blood flow by applying a tourniquet.
    • Do not ice the wound.
    • Do not suck the poison out with your mouth.   
*These methods above can cause additional harm 

DO
    • Stay calm
    • Note the type of snake or key descriptors
    • Call Dispatch via radio or 911
    • Wash the bite area gently with soap and water if available
    • Remove watches, rings, etc., which may constrict swelling
    • Immobilize the affected area
    • Keep the bite below the heart if possible
    • Transport safely to the nearest medical facility immediately.

Caution to the petrified: Photo of Copper Head and Rattlesnake below

"Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves; so be shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves." Matt. 10:16