It’s rattlesnake season: Experts have tips on how to avoid getting bit

A Massasauga rattlesnake is shown in a handout photo. Photo: The Canadian Press/HO-Toronto Zoo-Ken Ardill

TORONTO — If you get bitten by a massasauga rattlesnake this summer, the Toronto Zoo advises you do the opposite of whatever you’ve seen in movies.

Don’t apply ice, don’t fashion a tourniquet, and never attempt to cut or suck the venom out.

The zoo is busting myths about how to safely treat a bite wound while raising awareness about the endangered species.

Native to the Georgian Bay and Bruce Peninsula regions, the massasauga rattlesnake is docile and avoids people, relying on its dusty camouflage-patterned skin to avoid detection.

The massasauga also has relatively small teeth that can’t penetrate leather-hiking boots or loose clothing.

But don’t be mistaken, says Andrew Lentini, a Toronto Zoo keeper in the reptile department. When they do bite, he says, it can be painful.

Only about a quarter of all rattlesnake bites are “dry” — meaning non-venomous — so it’s best to treat any bite as a medical emergency.

“Not going to sugar coat it, left untreated it could be quite serious,” said Lentini.

Once bitten, people have about an hour to get medical treatment. But moving around too much can make it worse — it spreads the venom — so Lentini advises immobilizing the affected extremity and getting someone to carry you to safety.

Rattlesnakes won’t bite unless provoked. Hikers need to be aware of stepping on them and never attempt to pick one up.

“Snakes need plenty of space,” Lentini cautions.

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Safety tips 

Snake bites increase in July and August. The Toronto Zoo has some tips on how to protect yourself.

Q. How can I avoid snakebite?
A. Stay on the beaten path when walking in rattlesnake habitat. Don’t walk in bare feet or sandals and use a flashlight at night.
Always watch where you put your hands and feet, do not reach into areas where you cannot see.
If you hear a rattlesnake, stop moving and determine the snake’s location. Slowly step away and give the snake room to move away.
Protect your pets. Keep dogs on a leash when walking though rattlesnake habitat.

Q. What do I do if I get bitten?
A. Stay calm and reduce movement. Clean the wound. Remove jewelry on the affected limb.
Don’t apply ice or a tourniquet, and don’t cut or apply suction to the bite area.
Call 911 and get to a hospital as quickly as possible.