08/12/2026
What if you came across a rattlesnake while working in your yard, walking a trail, or enjoying the outdoors?
If you encounter one:
Stay calm and slowly back away.
Give the snake plenty of space.
Keep children and pets away.
Never try to handle, or corner a rattlesnake.
If someone is bitten:
Call 9-1-1 immediately or get to the nearest emergency department as quickly as possible.
Stay as calm as possible and limit movement—the less you move, the slower the venom may spread.
Remove rings, watches, or tight clothing before swelling begins.
Keep the bitten limb at or slightly below the level of the heart, if possible.
Do NOT:
Cut the wound.
Try to suck out the venom.
Apply ice or a tourniquet.
Try to catch or kill the snake. If you can safely remember its color and pattern from a distance, that's enough.
This week's challenge: Walk around your property and identify areas where snakes could hide, such as tall grass, wood piles, or debris.
Respect wildlife, give snakes their space, and know what to do if the unexpected happens.