Action News Now reporter Christine Stoddard reports live from Chico. As temperatures across Northern California heat up, wildlife advocates and medical experts are working to dispel misconceptions to protect both people and snakes.
CHICO, Calif. – With rattlesnake season underway, experts are emphasizing safety with Rattlesnake Awareness Day on March 19.
Hosted by the California Poison Control System and the Fresno Chaffee Zoo, the effort aims to educate Californians on handling rattlesnake encounters and bites. A recording of the session will be uploaded to YouTube for anyone to watch at a later date.
As temperatures heat up, wildlife advocates and medical experts are working to dispel misconceptions to protect both people and snakes. Ranger Dylan Bradford from Bidwell Park in Chico advises hikers to wear high ankle boots and loose-fitting pants, and to be cautious when stepping over obstacles on trails.
“I recommend wearing high ankle boots as well as loose fitting pants. If you’re stepping over anything on the trails such as logs or rocks, step up onto them and look over the other side. Rather than stepping over the top and finding a surprise,” said Bradford.
Rattlesnakes are often seen warming up in the sun on Bidwell Park trails during the early morning hours. Bradford suggests giving the snakes space and slowly moving away if encountered.
Some believe rattlesnakes should be killed due to their perceived danger, but the California Department of Fish and Wildlife disagrees. Peter Tira, an information officer for the department, stressed the ecological importance of rattlesnakes.
“There’s really no reason to do so. I mean, rattlesnakes are a native species. They have an important role to play in the environment. They help keep all our rodent populations down right and manageable,” said Tira.
In the event of a rattlesnake bite, experts advise calling 911 and staying calm. Dr. Rais Vohra, Medical Director for the Fresno/Madera Division of California Poison Control System, warns against using improvised methods seen in movies.
“Don’t panic. Don’t do things that we see in the movies, like the tourniquet. It’s, the sucking on the wound. Some people even cut on the wound and make it bleed a little bit. None of those is, and none of those is helpful and, in fact, can add complications,” said Vohra.
Dr. Vohra also assured that all hospitals in California are equipped with anti-venom.
Find out more about rattlesnakes from the California Poison Control System here.