Snake Safety Training

The true risk of venomous snakebite and death in the United States is greatly exaggerated. While there are approximately 7000 reported snakebites on an annual basis, an estimated half of these are actual envenomations and the rest are “dry bites” where the snake bites but does not inject venom. On average, there are fewer than 1900 overall animal-related deaths in the country each year; bee and wasp stings and dog attacks account for a majority while snakes only account for 5-6 deaths each year. Most of these accidents occur at home with captive pets and in backyard encounters. Further, the majority of wild bites occur when the person is attempting to harass, kill or handle the snake. White males and young adults (18-28 years old) are the most frequently bitten demographic. Certain precautions can be taken to avoid almost all snake bites, reducing the true threat of snakebite to lower than that of being struck by lightning.

You are most likely to encounter snakes:

1) When they are crossing roads; 2) When they are moving through your backyard or through other transient habitats; 3) During the breeding season (spring or fall) when they are moving to look for mates; 4) When they are basking near habitat edges (e.g., water bodies, forest lines).

Watch your step and Your Reach

Many of our snake species use camouflage to protect themselves from predators or to catch their prey. Accidentally stepping on or grabbing a snake can communicate to that animal that you are trying to harm it, resulting in an aggressive response.

• Never place your hands, arms, feet or legs where you can’t see them when outdoors. Even reaching under the house for something blindly can cause you to disturb a hiding snake. While venomous snakes generally do not strike when approached or even stepped on, they almost always do if you grab them and/or pick them up whether intentionally or accidentally.
• Always wear closed shoes and long pants when walking through woods or places where you won’t have clear views of where you step.
• Walk around logs instead of blindly stepping over them. Some snakes are rodent specialists and feed along with logs.
• Use a flashlight so you can see the ground at night in areas where venomous snakes might be present.

Remain Calm if You see One

If you encounter a snake, simply step back or, if you are on the road, drive around or let it pass. Most snake encounters are just observations of these animals moving from Point A to B. Remember, they are not interested in harassing you as you are much bigger than they are; they are just going about their business.