13 Ways to Protect Your Family from Deadly Snake Bites

The local news has been full of stories about snake bite victims all across North Florida. This serves to remind us just how important it is to be aware of our surroundings during the rainy spring and summer months. Most snakes in North Florida are harmless and help keep rodent (and venomous snake) populations under control, but there are four snake varieties which are a danger.

They are the:

1. Rattlesnake
2. Copperhead
3. Coral Snake
4. Water Moccasin

These venomous snakes are often confused with their harmless cousins, who are killed out of fear. Take a look at the differences between “Good Snakes” and “Bad Snakes” in the presentation below:

Each year, approximately 8,000 venomous snake bites occur in the United States and about 12 of these snake bites prove to be fatal. Antivenom treatments can help in cases where snakes are venomous, but unfortunately also carry a high risk of side-effects and may not be fully effective. Therefore it is important to be vigilant when outdoors, especially if you have younger children.

Here are some ways to protect your family members against becoming a snake bite victim:

1. Keep your grass mowed, tall grass is an ideal hiding spot for snakes.
2. Keep shrubs and tree branches trimmed and away from your house.
3. Warn children to stay away from the edge of lakes, streams and ponds.
4. Keep wood and brush piles away from buildings and areas where children play.
5. Store firewood on a rack off the ground.
6. Check around and under outdoor toys and play-structures before play.
7. Eliminate any holes or gaps in your home’s foundation. (pencil size and up)
8. Avoid areas where snakes may frequent. (rocky areas, thick brush, fallen logs, etc.)
9. Use a flashlight if you go out at night to light your path.
10. Never handle a snake, even if it is dead they have a bite reflex.
11. Baby snakes are not less harmful or dangerous, warn children of this fact.
12. Snakes can climb, watch the trees and keep that in mind for multi-level play structures.
13. When camping, zip tents fully and keep your shoes inside.

Sometimes despite precaution… accidents happen. If you or a loved one are ever bitten by a snake it is important to stay calm. Try to remember what the snake looks like but do not attempt to catch or kill it. Immediately remove any jewelry (especially rings) or tight fitting clothing from the area and clean the wound then immediately seek medical attention.

For any snake questions you might have please call your county’s local wildlife removal service or animal control.

For all lawn care or pest control topics, please call Live Oak Pest Control at (386) 362-BUGS. (M-F 7am to 5:30pm)