Phoenix Herpetological Society says mild weather in Scottsdale, Arizona keeps rattlesnakes out at night.
The Phoenix Herpetological Society wants those who will be trick or treating in the Scottsdale valley to be aware that due to mild temperatures, rattlesnakes are still active at night. The society is cautioning those who will be out on Halloween night to be sure that they can see where they are walking and to avoid damp and/or rocky areas where these venomous snakes can often be found during mild weather. The society recommends carrying a flashlight as well. The society is warning those who encounter a rattlesnake to walk away from the snake and do not try to move it yourself. The society has removed snakes from valley homes for several days and can remove it for you for a small fee. If bitten by a rattlesnake, the society recommends that you:
- Keep the bitten area still. You can immobilize the area with an improvised splint made from a board, magazines, or other stiff material tied to the limb (but don't tie it too tight because you don't want to reduce blood flow).
- Remove any jewelry or constricting items near the affected area in case of swelling.
- Call 911 and stay calm.
- Elevate the extremity that’s bitten.
- Do not drive yourself to the hospital
- Do not use ice to cool the bite
- Do not cut open the wound and try to suck out the venom
- Do not use a tourniquet. This will cut off blood flow and the limb may be lost
Rattlesnakes are still active in other parts of the country as well where the weather is still mild, including areas in Southern California and other regions so be aware of your and your children's surroundings.
