Dos and Don'ts When Running into Rattlesnakes

Rattlesnakes are not just confined to rural areas - something of which one La Cañada resident was recently reminded. 

Longtime resident Neal Peterson told the that he found a baby rattler this week. 

The California Department of Fish and Game points out that as the weather gets warmer, and more people venture outdoors, the more likely they are to encounter snakes. And while most of California's snakes are benign, the venomous exception is the rattlesnake.

According to the Fish and Game website, rattlesnaakes have been found near urban areas, in river or lakeside parks, and at golf courses. Officials caution that startled rattlesnakes may not rattle before striking defensively.

Here is a list of safety measures that you can take to reduce the probability of startling a rattlesnake:

• Never go barefoot or wear sandals when walking through wild areas. Wear hiking boots.
• When hiking, stick to well-used trails and wear over-the-ankle boots and loose-fitting long pants. Avoid tall grass, weeds and heavy underbrush where snakes may hide during the day.
• Do not step or put your hands where you cannot see, and avoid wandering around in the dark. Step ON logs and rocks, never over them, and be especially careful when climbing rocks or gathering firewood. Check out stumps or logs before sitting down, and shake out sleeping bags before use.
• Never grab “sticks” or “branches” while swimming in lakes and rivers. Rattlesnakes can swim.
• Be careful when stepping over the doorstep as well. Snakes like to crawl along the edge of buildings where they are protected on one side.
• Never hike alone. Always have someone with you who can assist in an emergency.
• Do not handle a freshly killed snake, it can still inject venom.
• Teach children early to respect snakes and to leave them alone. Children are naturally curious and will pick up snakes.

For more information about rattlesnakes, check out the California Deaprtment of Fish and Game's website.