Picture it: you’re walking along a hiking trail, enjoying the scenery, when suddenly you hear a rustling sound coming from the bushes nearby. Before you know it, a snake emerges and starts slithering towards you, chasing you down the path. What do you do?
While the thought of being chased by a snake may evoke feelings of terror and panic, it’s important to remember that these creatures are more scared of you than you are of them. In fact, most snakes will only attack if they feel threatened or provoked. So, the key to escaping a snake chase unscathed is to remain calm and avoid doing anything that might trigger an attack.
One of the first things you should do is try to put as much distance between you and the snake as possible. Avoid making any sudden movements or loud noises, which could agitate the snake and make it more likely to attack. Instead, back away slowly and as quietly as possible, always keeping an eye on the snake to ensure you don’t accidentally trip over it or step on it. With a little bit of caution and common sense, you should be able to escape a snake chase without any harm.
Understanding Snake Behavior
Snakes have been feared for centuries due to their venomous bite and threatening behavior. However, not all snakes are dangerous, and understanding their behavior can ensure a safer interaction with them in their natural habitat. Here are some important things to know about snake behavior:
- Snakes are generally solitary creatures and prefer to avoid human contact.
- They use their environment to regulate their body temperature, so they may be more active during certain times of the day.
- Snakes rely on their sense of smell and sight to sense danger and locate prey.
- If a snake feels threatened or cornered, it may become defensive and may even attack as a form of self-defense.
- Snakes have a natural fear of humans and will typically flee when in contact with people.
It is important to respect these creatures and give them their space. Trying to capture or kill a snake can lead to dangerous encounters and increase the risk of being bitten. Additionally, snakes play an important role in controlling rodent populations and maintaining the natural balance of ecosystems. If you come across a snake in the wild, appreciate its beauty from a safe distance and admire its unique characteristics.
Identify the type of snake
Encountering a snake is no doubt a scary situation, but it’s important to stay calm and identify the type of snake. Knowing the species can help you determine whether it is venomous or not and what actions you should take next. Here are some tips on how to identify a snake:
- Observe its color and patterns. Different species of snakes have unique colorations and markings. For example, a coral snake has red, yellow, and black bands that are distinct, while a garter snake has stripes that run down its body. Take note of the colors and markings of the snake to help identify it.
- Check its head shape. Venomous snakes typically have triangular heads, while nonvenomous snakes have more round or slender heads. Be cautious, though, as some nonvenomous snakes can flatten their heads, making them appear triangular.
- Look at its pupils. Venomous snakes typically have slit-like pupils, while nonvenomous snakes have round pupils. However, this is not always a reliable way to identify a snake.
If you’re unsure of the type of snake you encountered, stay clear and call for professional help like animal control or a pest control company. It’s never a good idea to handle a snake if you’re unsure of its species and if it’s venomous or not.
Here’s a table of some common venomous and nonvenomous snakes found in North America:
| Common Venomous Snakes | Common Nonvenomous Snakes |
|---|---|
| Rattlesnake | Garter snake |
| Copperhead | Rat snake |
| Coral snake | Milk snake |
| Cottonmouth | King snake |
In summary, correctly identifying the type of snake is essential in determining what to do if a snake is chasing you. Look for color and patterns, head shape, and pupil shape to identify the species. Always err on the side of caution and call for professional help if you’re unsure of the snake’s species or if it’s venomous.
Keeping a Safe Distance
Encountering a snake can be a terrifying experience, especially if it starts chasing you. The first and most important rule for dealing with a chasing snake is to keep your distance. Here are a few tips on how to maintain a safe distance from the snake:
- Stop running: The first thing you should do is stop running. Running will only make the snake chase you harder. Instead, stand still and try to remain as calm as possible.
- Back away slowly: Once you have stopped running, start backing away slowly. Make sure you keep your eyes on the snake at all times.
- Give the snake space: Snakes will usually only chase you if they feel threatened. Giving the snake enough space to retreat will reduce its aggression and allow you to escape safely.
It is important to always remember that snakes are generally not aggressive towards humans and will only attack if they feel threatened. Keeping a safe distance and respecting the snake’s space will minimize the chances of a confrontation.
Below is a table that shows the recommended safe distance to maintain between you and the snake based on the type:
| Type of Snake | Recommended Safe Distance |
|---|---|
| Rattlesnake | 6-8 feet |
| Copperhead | 4-6 feet |
| Water Moccasin | 6-8 feet |
By keeping a safe distance and following the tips above you can effectively deal with a chasing snake and avoid a dangerous encounter.
Do not provoke the snake
When faced with a snake, the last thing you want to do is provoke it. Snakes will generally only attack if they feel threatened or cornered, so try to keep your distance and give the snake plenty of space to move away. If you try to provoke the snake by throwing things at it, shouting, or waving your arms around, you are more likely to make the situation worse.
- Stay calm and still- sudden movements can startle the snake, making it more likely to attack.
- Make noise- if you see a snake on a hiking trail, clap your hands or stomp your feet to alert the snake of your approach. Most snakes will move out of the way if they hear you coming.
- Back away slowly- if you encounter a snake in your yard or garden, slowly back away and give the snake plenty of space to move away. Avoid turning your back on the snake or running away, as this can trigger a predatory response from the snake.
If you accidentally step on a snake, the sudden pressure can startle the snake and cause it to strike out in defense. However, many snakes will only give a warning bite if they feel threatened, rather than injecting venom. If you are bitten by a snake, seek medical attention immediately- even non-venomous snake bites can become infected and cause serious health problems.
Remember, snakes are an important part of the ecosystem and play a vital role in keeping pest populations in check. Rather than trying to kill or remove snakes from your property, learn to coexist with them by keeping your distance and respecting their space.
Knowing how to handle an encounter with a snake can save your life.
How to move slowly and calmly to safety
If you find yourself being chased by a snake, the best thing to do is to move slowly and calmly to safety. This can be difficult if you are feeling panicked or afraid, but it is crucial in order to avoid provoking the snake into attacking. Here are some tips for moving slowly and calmly:
- Stay still and assess the situation. Take a deep breath and try to remain calm. Stay still and try to locate the snake. If you can see it, try to determine its species from a safe distance. This will help you know how to approach the situation.
- Back away slowly. If the snake is still some distance away from you, start backing away slowly. Keep your eye on the snake and move slowly and calmly. The snake may follow you for a short distance, but it will eventually stop if it doesn’t feel threatened.
- Stay low and move slowly. If the snake is close to you, try to stay low and move slowly. This will make you appear less threatening to the snake, and it may be less likely to attack. If you need to move quickly, do so in a direction away from the snake.
Remember, the most important thing when dealing with a snake is to stay calm and avoid provoking it. Move slowly and carefully, and try to stay at a safe distance from the snake. If you are able to do so, leave the area and seek medical attention if necessary.
Knowing Basic First Aid for Snake Bites
Encountering a snake can be a terrifying experience for anyone, especially if the snake seems to be chasing you. While most snakes are harmless, some carry venom that can cause serious injury or even death. If you find yourself in a situation where a snake is chasing you, it is essential to know how to administer basic first aid for snake bites.
- Stay Calm: The first step is to avoid panicking. Running away or flailing your arms can entice the snake to chase you more.
- Remove Constrictive Clothing or Jewelry: If the snake has bitten you on the arm or leg, remove any restrictive clothing or jewelry to prevent swelling and circulation issues.
- Seek Medical Help: Even if the snake is not venomous, it’s always best to seek medical attention to ensure the wound is properly cleaned and bandaged. If it is a venomous snake, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. Do not attempt to suck out the venom or cut the wound to remove the venom as this can cause further injury.
It is also helpful to know the signs of a venomous snake bite. Symptoms will vary depending on the type of snake and its venom, but they can include:
- Pain and Swelling at the Bite Site
- Numbness or Tingling in the Extremities
- Difficulty Breathing
- Dizziness or Fainting
- Blurred Vision
- Nausea and Vomiting
If someone is showing any of these symptoms after a snake bite, do not hesitate to call for medical help.
Here is an example of a basic first aid kit for snake bites:
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Antiseptic Wipes | To clean the wound and prevent infection |
| Bandages and Gauze | To wrap the wound and prevent swelling and bleeding |
| Splint | To immobilize the affected limb |
| Snake Bite Extractor | To remove the venom from the bite (Note: Studies have shown that the effectiveness of these extractors is limited and should not be relied upon as the sole method of treatment) |
By staying calm, seeking medical help, and having a basic first aid kit on hand, you can ensure that you are equipped to handle a snake bite in the unlikely event that you are chased by one.
Precautionary measures to avoid snakes
Snakes can be dangerous, and it is always best to take precautions to avoid any encounters. There are several measures that you can take to minimize the risk of coming across a snake:
- Wear protective clothing and boots: When walking in areas where snakes are common, it is best to wear long pants and boots. This can help protect you from a snake’s bite.
- Stay on marked trails: Snakes are more likely to be found in areas with tall grass or underbrush. If you stick to marked trails, you are less likely to encounter one.
- Watch where you’re stepping: Be mindful of your surroundings and keep an eye out for snakes. If you see one, give it a wide berth.
Here are some additional precautions that you can take to help avoid snakes:
- Eliminate hiding spots: Keep your yard and outdoor living areas free of clutter, piles of wood, and any other places where snakes can hide
- Keep your grass short: Snakes tend to prefer tall grass, so keep your lawn mowed short
- Inspect your property regularly: Check your property regularly to look for signs of snakes, such as skins shed by the snakes or their burrows
Finally, here are some common-sense tips to follow if you do come across a snake:
| Tips for dealing with snakes |
|---|
| Remain calm and still. Most snakes will leave you alone if you leave them alone. |
| Back away slowly. While remaining calm, back away from the snake slowly and cautiously. |
| Do not try to catch or kill the snake. This is when most snakebites occur. |
| Keep your distance. Even if you are not sure if the snake is venomous or not, it is best to keep your distance. |
By taking these precautions, you can minimize the likelihood of encountering snakes. Remember, most snakes don’t want to hurt you – they are simply trying to defend themselves. If you approach them calmly and with caution, you can reduce the chances of a dangerous encounter.
How to repel snakes with natural remedies
Snakes are known to be one of the most dangerous creatures in the world and it’s important to know how to repel them effectively without harming them. Here are some natural remedies that can help keep snakes away:
- Mothballs: One of the most popular and effective ways to repel snakes is by using mothballs. Simply place them around your property or garden, and the pungent smell will keep snakes away.
- Clove and cinnamon oil: Snakes have a strong sense of smell, and this can be used against them. Clove and cinnamon oil are known to be very potent and can be used as a natural snake repellent. Just sprinkle a few drops around your property, and snakes will keep their distance.
- Garlic: Another powerful natural way to repel snakes is by using garlic. Snakes hate the smell of garlic, and it’s a great way to keep them away. You can plant garlic around your garden or crush garlic cloves and sprinkle them around the perimeter of your property.
If you’re dealing with a snake infestation, it’s important to take measures to get rid of them while still keeping them safe. Here are some additional natural remedies that can help:
Eliminating hiding places: Snakes love to hide, so eliminating their hiding places is a great way to drive them away. Cut down tall grass, remove piles of debris, and seal any gaps in your walls or foundation that they could use to hide in.
Catnip: While catnip can attract cats, it’s actually a great natural way to repel snakes. Snakes hate the smell of catnip and will keep away from any areas where it’s located.
| Type of snake | Repellent |
|---|---|
| Black snakes | Cinnamon oil |
| Rattlesnakes | Lemongrass oil |
| Copperheads | Clove oil |
By using these natural remedies, you can repel snakes and keep them away without resorting to harmful chemicals or methods. Remember, snakes are an important part of our ecosystem and should be treated with respect.
When to Call Emergency Services
When encountering a snake while hiking or in any outdoor activity, it’s advisable not to panic and to assess the situation carefully. However, despite the level of preparedness and knowledge, sometimes being chased by a snake could warrant calling emergency services. Below are some situations where calling emergency services should be considered:
- If the victim has been bitten by the snake, emergency services should be contacted immediately for medical attention. Most venomous snakes have a rapid onset of symptoms which can be fatal if not treated immediately. It’s important to keep the victim from moving around as this could increase blood flow, thereby speeding up the venom’s spread to other parts of the body.
- If the snake is trapped indoors or in any other confined space where it can’t escape, it’s advisable to call emergency services for safe removal. This is especially important in residential areas where children could be at risk of being bitten. At times, the snake could be injured, making it more agitated and prone to attacking, which could be dangerous for those in close proximity.
- If the victim is unable to move, or being chased by the snake has resulted in an injury that hinders mobility, calling emergency services is essential. In such cases, the victim’s life could depend on immediate medical intervention, so it’s crucial to be always prepared with information such as your location and details of the situation.
It’s crucial to note that contacting emergency services should be done only as a last resort when all other options have been exhausted. In most cases, snakes are more afraid of humans and prefer to keep their distance. Remember, staying calm and assessing the situation will go a long way in ensuring your safety when faced with a chasing snake.
In cases where emergency services are necessary, provide them with all the information required to ensure prompt and accurate response. This includes your location details, the type of snake, if known, and the victim’s age and condition, if applicable.
| Emergency Services Contact Numbers | |
|---|---|
| National Poison Control Center (United States): | 1800 222 1222 |
| Emergency Services (United States): | 911 |
| Emergency Services (Australia): | 000 |
Knowing when to call emergency services is an important part of being prepared when encountering a snake. As a general rule, being proactive and taking preventative measures, such as wearing protective clothing and carrying a snake-bite kit, will go a long way in ensuring your safety while outdoors.
Seeking Professional Help for Snake Removal
Encountering a snake can be a frightening experience, and finding out that it is chasing you can be even scarier. As tempting as it may be to try and handle the situation yourself, it is best to seek professional help when dealing with a snake.
- Contact a wildlife control specialist or a licensed pest control company. These professionals have the necessary skills and tools to safely remove the snake from your property without causing harm to yourself or the snake.
- Do not try to catch or kill the snake yourself. This can be dangerous and may result in injury or death to both you and the snake.
- Avoid using repellents or traps as they may cause the snake to become aggressive and increase the risk of attack.
When seeking professional help, it is important to choose a reputable company that specializes in snake removal. Ask for references and check their credentials before allowing them to handle the situation.
Remember that prevention is key when it comes to snake encounters. Keep your yard and home clean and free of clutter that snakes may use for shelter. Seal any gaps or holes in your home’s foundation or walls, including around doors and windows, to prevent snakes from entering.
| Benefits of Seeking Professional Help for Snake Removal |
|---|
| Professional wildlife control specialists have the necessary skills and tools to safely handle snakes, minimizing the risk of injury or death. |
| Reputable companies have the knowledge and experience to properly identify and remove the snake, preventing any further encounters. |
| Using a professional service ensures that the snake is removed safely and humanely, preventing harm to both the snake and yourself. |
Overall, when dealing with a snake that is chasing you, do not panic and seek professional help immediately. Remember that prevention is key to avoiding snake encounters, so take steps to keep your property clean and free of clutter. By following these tips and seeking professional assistance, you can handle any snake encounter safely and efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions about What to Do if a Snake is Chasing You
Q: Does every snake chase humans?
A: No, most snakes will try to avoid humans as much as possible. Only a few species, like the black mamba or king cobra, may chase humans as a defensive behavior.
Q: What should I do if a snake starts to chase me?
A: Try to stay calm, and slowly move away from the snake. Do not make sudden movements or run, as this can provoke the snake to strike.
Q: Can I use sticks or rocks to defend myself from a snake?
A: No, using any kind of weapon against a snake can agitate it and make it attack. It’s best to stay away from the snake and call for professional help.
Q: Should I try to catch or kill the snake?
A: No, it’s never a good idea to handle or kill a snake if you’re not trained to do so. This can be dangerous for both you and the snake.
Q: What if I get bitten by the snake?
A: Seek medical attention immediately. Do not try to suck the venom out or apply a tourniquet, as this can make the situation worse.
Q: Can I prevent snakes from approaching me?
A: Yes, you can take steps to reduce the likelihood of encountering snakes. This includes wearing closed-toe shoes, staying on trails when hiking, and keeping your yard free of debris and overgrown vegetation.
Q: Are all snakes poisonous?
A: No, not all snakes are poisonous. In fact, most species of snakes are non-venomous. However, it’s always best to assume that a snake is venomous and treat it with caution.
Closing Thoughts
Remember, encountering a snake can be scary, but it’s important to stay calm and avoid panicking. If you happen to come across a snake that starts to chase you, slowly move away from it and call for professional help if necessary. And always seek medical attention immediately if you get bitten by a snake. Thanks for reading, and we hope you come back for more tips on how to stay safe in the great outdoors.