Washington Poison Center received its first two rattlesnake bite cases of the year last week, marking the unofficial start of snake season in Washington.
As the weather warms up and more people head outdoors to hike, run, or relax in their backyards, encounters with snakes become more likely. Luckily, out of all the snake species in Washington, only one is a real concern for people: the Western Rattlesnake (crotalus oreganus). Its bite is rarely deadly, but it can still lead to serious health problems and high medical costs, making fast medical attention very important.
Most rattlesnake bites in Washington occur between April and August. Western rattlesnakes are usually found in the dry, rocky regions of central and eastern Washington, including the Columbia Basin. Last year, we treated 24 people for rattlesnake bites. However, the true number is probably higher, since healthcare providers are not required to report bites to the Poison Center.
Not all western rattlesnake bites inject venom—about 20–25% are “dry” bites, where no venom is injected. If venom is injected, symptoms can start within minutes or take hours to appear. Bites from western rattlesnakes often cause bleeding and muscle damage, but rarely lead to serious nerve or brain problems like bites from species found in other parts of the U.S..
You can lower your chances of a dangerous encounter by following these tips:
Be proactive:
Save our number: 1 (800) 222-1222
Hike with a buddy
If hiking alone, check your phone signal or bring a satellite emergency device
Know the name and location of your hiking trail, in case you need to call for help
Limit cell phone use to save battery
Wear over-the-ankle boots and long, loose hiking pants
Stick to marked trails and carry a walking stick or trekking poles
Don’t step or reach into thick brush, tall grass, or rock piles
If you see a rattlesnake or hear its rattle, slowly move away
Never try to catch, touch, or get close to a snake
If you are bitten, stay calm. Unlike what you see in movies, you do not only have minutes to live. Most people who are bitten and get medical help within a few hours recover well.
Call 911 or Washington Poison Center at 1 (800) 222-1222
Call 911 if you or the bitten person is having difficulty breathing, starts swelling around the face, or loses consciousness, or was bitten on the face
If you call us, we will help you locate the nearest emergency room, and will call ahead to let them know you are on your way. We will also help your healthcare providers with your treatment
Keep the bitten area still and lower than the heart, if possible, until reaching the hospital
Remove rings, watches, or tight clothing near the bite site in case of swelling
Do NOT try the following methods, as they do not work and may cause more harm:
Sucking out the venom or cutting the wound
Using snakebite kits
Applying ice
Applying a tourniquet
Try to note what the snake looks like or safely take a photo of it for identification—but don’t risk another bite, and do not bring the snake to the hospital
Do not try to capture or kill the snake
The bottom line: if you are bitten, the best tools you can use are your car keys and phone. Go safely to a hospital and call the Poison Center.
As our weather continues to warm up, staying aware and prepared can help you avoid dangerous encounters with snakes. While rattlesnake bites can be serious, they are rarely life-threatening if treated properly. Knowing how to prevent bites and what to do if one happens can keep you and others safe. Washington Poison Center is here for you 24/7/365 at 1 (800) 222-1222 to provide expert help in case of snake bites or any other poisoning concerns.
For more information, please visit the Washington Poison Center‘s website.