It’s that time of year again…☀️🐍

With the early heat, those darn 🐍rattlesnakes are already out and about. Stay alert! It’s simple—don’t reach or step where you can’t see. Keep your 👀eyes and👂ears on the trail!

Last weekend, one of our volunteers was doing weeding at our rescue property and got struck by a rattler. Thankfully he’s fine, not sure the snake is, and thankfully he was wearing snake guards—which made all the difference.! Snake guards or snake boots are very important this time of year. Yes, they’re hot and kind of annoying, but they work!

If you or someone with you gets bitten by a rattlesnake, here’s what to do:

‼️⚠️Call 911 and follow their instructions‼️That’s it!

They may have you remove clothing or jewelry near the bite because of swelling or tell you whether to move or stay put depending on the situation.

What not to do:
⚠️ Don’t use ice or a tourniquet
⚠️ Don’t try to suck out the venom
⚠️️ Don’t rely on Benadryl—it’s not helpful and can even be dangerous

If you’re heading somewhere without cell service, it’s a good idea to have a satellite communication device—there are some very affordable ones out there now.

And with this hotter-than-normal weather… don’t forget to 💧hydrate. Pre-hydrate-you should start before you head out! When you’re working or hiking in the heat, try to drink about a cup (8oz) of water every 15–20 minutes (around 24–32 oz an hour).

Stay safe out there—and keep your head on a swivel!

📷 photo credit: Lori Pitts, SRWHMG supporter