Rattlesnake Advisory:
RAT T L E S N A K E S A F E TY I N THE REGIONAL PARKS
By East Bay Regional Park District
As the weather heats up, rattlesnakes become more active
in many of our parks, their natural habitat. They like to
explore when the weather gets warm which can lead to more
encounters with humans and dogs. The East Bay Regional Park
District is advising that the public take snake safety precautions
when visiting Regional Parks.
SAFETY TIPS FOR VISITING REGIONAL PARKS
• Always hike with a friend so you can help each other in
case of emergency.
• Look at the ground ahead of you as you are walking.
• Look carefully around and under logs and rocks before
sitting down.
• Avoid placing your hands or feet where you can’t see
clearly.
• Check the area around picnic tables, campsites, and
barbecues before using them. If you encounter a rattlesnake
in these areas, notify park staff.
32 MARKETPLACECONTRACOSTA.COM AUGUST 2019
• Keep pets on the designated trails and away from snakes if
they see one.
• Bring plenty of water for yourself and your pets as many
parks do not have a direct water supply.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU SEE A RATTLESNAKE
Leave it alone - do not try to capture or harm it. All park
wildlife is protected by law. If you see a snake on a trail, wait for
it to cross and do not approach. Then move carefully and slowly
away.
WHAT TO DO IF BITTEN BY A SNAKE
If bitten by a rattlesnake, stay calm and send someone to call
911. Remain calm by lying down with the affected limb lower
than the heart. Do not waste precious time on tourniquets,
“sucking,” or snake bite kits. If you are by yourself, walk calmly
to the nearest source of help to dial 911. Do not run.