Washington state hikers warned of dangerous snakes

KING COUNTY, Wash. — Washington state hikers are being warned of dangerous snakes as summer approaches.

While the vast majority of local snakes are harmless, certain venomous species can be found throughout the Pacific Northwest.

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Officials with the Washington Poison Center said the species are mainly limited to areas east of the Cascades.

Bites from the venomous species can be life-threatening. Two snake varieties were highlighted in the poison center’s alert: the Western Rattlesnake [Crotalus viridis] and the Northern Pacific Rattlesnake [Crotalus oreganus].

See pictures above & embedded within the story.

What should you do if you have been bitten? From poison center officials:

"If a snake has bitten you or a family member, remain calm and call the Washington Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222. All calls are free, confidential, and answered by healthcare professionals. You may also call 911."

Other tips from the Washington Poison Center website:

• Do NOT attempt to capture a snake. If you are able to safely photograph the snake, this may help in identification, but do NOT put yourself at risk for another bite!
• Do NOT attempt to extract the venom from the bite site or use commercially sold 'snakebite kits' or 'venom extractors'. These have not been shown to be effective and may worsen tissue damage in the area of the bite.
• Do NOT apply tourniquets or ice packs to the bite site or affected limb.
• If possible, DO restrict the movement of the affected limb.
• DO remove any rings or constricting items from the limb as swelling may occur.

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