It is Spring in the Desert!
Sure signs of spring in the desert: warming weather, blooming cacti and rattlesnakes....
Sometimes a rattlesnake will deliver a "dry-bite" where no venom is injected.
Best response to a bite is to seek medical attention right away. Medical personnel will do an examination and determine if anti-venom is needed.
Adults and children are equally at risk for developing serious illness after a snakebite. If symptoms such as dizziness, sleepiness, vomiting or trouble breathing occur immediately after the bite, call 911 to be transported to a hospital. If symptoms are limited to minor swelling and pain immediately after the bite and a nearby hospital is within easy access, emergency medical transport may not be necessary.
Don't believe the myths! Refrain from cutting into the bite area or trying to suck out venom. Even tourniquets should be avoided, specialists say. Do not apply ice to the bite area or administer your own alcohol or drugs in an attempt at first aid.
Pets are sometimes bitten by rattlesnakes. "Cats, by behavior, tend to hide out after an injury. Despite this, many survive," said Keith Boesen, director of Arizona Poison and Drug Information Center. "Although many large dogs do well with no veterinary care, it is recommended that any pet be taken to an emergency veterinary clinic if bitten," he said.
Source: James Gregg/ Arizona Daily Star 2010
Always watch where you step before exiting a car or before stepping outside your home.
Wear protective footwear.
Don't blindly reach into a bush or a hole in the ground in search of an errant golf ball.
Stay on marked trails when hiking.
Don't play loud music through ear buds while hiking, which could prevent you from hearing a warning rattle.
Rattlesnakes are attracted to their vital resources including food, water, and a safe place to live. Rodents should be eliminated from around your home. Start by filling all the holes that you find. If possible, you can use snap traps and live traps but using poison traps might kill the wrong animals.
Have a Safe DAY!
"The mission of the Tubac Fire District is to create a safer environment within our community in order to increase the quality of life which our citizens may enjoy.".
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