Things you can do to prevent a venomous bite or sting when hiking and camping in Arizona’s great outdoors

• Remain alert for snakes and be extra cautious when daily temperatures remain over 82º Fahrenheit. South-facing slopes and rocky areas are places where snake encounters are most likely to occur..
• Don’t handle, touch or play with snakes – walk around them if you can.
• A long walking stick can be a good hiking companion. It can be used in an emergency to move a snake out of bite range.
• Step on the top of rocks or logs to get to a clear view of what’s on the other side before stepping down.
• Don’t blindly reach under bushes, rocks or logs.
• Check and shake bedding and clothes before each use.
• Don’t wear scents of any kind
• Watch for bee hives, colonies or swarms when outdoors, and leave alone if found.
• Close and zip all tent closures in the evening.
• Remember that during our hot summer months rattlesnakes are much more active and hunt in the evening.
• Keep a good first aid kit with you. A snake-bite kit is not necessary.
• Wear long pants and lace-up leather shoes or boots that cover your ankles.