When you are out hiking, you should be paying attention and aware of your surroundings. One thing to be aware of is snakes. Your geographic location will determine what kinds of snakes to be on the lookout for. And I’m not saying be paranoid and think there’s a snake behind every log and under every rock. I’m just saying pay attention and snakes are one thing to pay attention to when noticed. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here’s what the Reader’s Digest Action Guide: What To Do In An Emergency<\/em> has to say about Snakes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Most snakes are timid creatures that attack only when startled or cornered. Even a poisonous snake will usually slither away before you get near it. But if you are bitten, you have a good chance of surviving. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Snakes are cold-blooded creatures that seek hot places when its cool. They will bask on sun-bathed rocks and ledges. When it is hot, they are found under rocks, logs, or leaf piles. They also occupy caves, crevices, shady ravines, swamps or rivers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Although many of the snakes you might encounter are harmless, all should be treated with extreme caution. If poisonous snakes are found in your area, learn to recognize them and to know their behavior and habitats.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

• If you go walking in areas where snakes are likely, keep to paths and wear hiking boots and long pants to protect your feet and ankles – the commonest targets of a striking snake.<\/li>
• In the woods, never step over logs without first looking on the other side. If you plan to sit in the shade, first examine the ground carefully for snakes.<\/li>
• In rocky areas, watch for snakes lying on ledges above or below your path. Never place your hand on a surface that you cannot see.<\/li>
• If you see any snake, stop at once and move quickly to at least 20 ft. (6 m) from it.<\/li>
• If you do get bitten, clean the wound and bandage it firmly. Keep the injured limb low.<\/li>
• If you have killed the snake, bring it to the hospital. Be careful: a dead snake can still bite from reflex. If possible, decapitate the snake and bury the head under a log or a rock.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n

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