How do you keep snakes away from hiking in Arizona?

How do you stay safe from rattlesnakes while hiking?

1. Understand that they are defensive, not aggressive.
2. Know what you’re looking at: educate yourself.
3. Keep your hands and feet where you can see them.
4. Stay on designated trails at all times.
5. Don’t wear headphones.
6. Don’t touch them, pick them up, kill them, etc.

When should I hike to avoid snakes?

Hike during the cooler parts of the day. Snakes like to warm their bodies in the sunshine. Hiking in the evening or early in the morning helps you avoid their favorite part of the day.

How do you keep rattlesnakes from hiking?

Here are some tips to help avoid surprising a rattlesnake as you hike.

1. Check trip reports.
2. Hike with trekking poles.
3. Use popular trails.
4. Stay on cleared, open sections of trails.
5. Avoid thick brush.
6. Wear long loose pants and high top boots.
7. Stick together and keep dogs leashed.
8. Hike in hibernation season.

What to do when you encounter a snake while hiking?

If you see or hear a snake, the best thing to do is to stop, assess the situation, slowly back away, and wait at a safe distance for the snake to leave. If there is a way to detour far around the snake, that’s a good option too. Don’t try to scare the snake away, approach the snake, or move the snake.

What do you do if you get bit by a rattlesnake while hiking?

Keep the snake bit victim calm, keeping them still and quiet. Restrict movement, and keep the affected area at or below heart level to reduce the flow of venom. Remove any rings or constricting items and clothing as the affected area may swell. Allow the bite to bleed freely for 15 – 30 seconds before cleansing.

What to do if you are bitten by a rattlesnake while hiking?

What to do if you encounter a rattlesnake while hiking?

If the snake won’t move off the trail, it’s safest to wait it out or turn back. Don’t try stepping over or around it, unless you can bypass it at a safe distance – and watch where you step. Keep an eye on the snake in case it decides to escape your way. When motivated, they can glide fairly quickly.

Should I be afraid of snakes while hiking?

One good way to avoid snake bite is to avoid trekking areas that are known to be snake territory, especially at night time. You need to keep in mind that snakes are really active when darkness falls. So it is also a good idea to choose going through open trails and to avoid bushes and loose rocks.