Snake Safety
Venomous Snakes:
Southern Pacific Rattle Snake
Non-venomous Snakes:
Gopher Snake
King Snake
Garter Snake

Top Safety Tips
- Watch where you step
- Wear shoes while hiking
- Stay on the trails
- Leash your pets
- If you see a snake, leave it alone and back away slowly
For more tips, visit Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW).
Snake Sightings
- Most snakes are sighted between the hours of 11 a.m. and 8 p.m., especially during warm weather.
- Avoid picking up snakes whether they are venomous or non-venomous.
- Most snakes will move if left alone.
- If you cannot identify the type of snake, and it does not leave the property, call the fire department for removal. Continue observing the snake until fire fighters arrive.
- Avoid killing snakes, especially California King Snakes and Gopher Snakes. They are an important part of our environment. California King Snakes eat Rattle Snakes..
Hiker Protection
- Be careful where you place your hands and feet and where you sit.
- Watch where you are stepping.
Homeowner
- Discourage snakes in your yard by removing debris near your home. Use caution when removing debris. Snakes may already be inside piles.
- Be sure that all doors/windows fit tightly so that snakes will not enter.
- Keep door completely closed during warm months.
- Be careful when stepping into a cool dark garage or over the doorstep. Snakes will crawl into cool areas beneath edges of doorsteps to escape heat.
First Aid For Bites
- Move victim to safety.
- Do not attempt to capture or restrain snakes.
- Quiet and calm the victim to slow down blood circulation.
- Transport to medical facility as soon as possible, or call 911.
- Do not use ice, do not cut wound or use tourniquets.
- Elevate wound site.
Emergency Preparedness
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