Local hikers discuss rattlesnake season, staying safe on trails

THOUSAND PALMS, Calif. (KESQ) – It's rattlesnake season in the desert. While it's not likely to see a rattlesnake daily in the Coachella Valley, hikers and residents are still on the lookout.

"We just made sure that we were looking out for signs, especially of the little rock quarries and shaded areas," Joseph Wahl said. "And areas where we saw little holes in the dirt."

The desert has up to six different types of rattlesnakes, each having various levels of toxicity. Wahl said he and his wife are visiting the Valley, but know looking out for rattlesnakes on trails is important.

"We're from Oregon," Wahl said. "And when we hike in central Oregon, they also have the same problem with rattlesnakes, and so we're kind of aware. But yeah, if you're not used to hiking make sure that you're reading on...the signs."

Knowing the signs can be important, especially as the California Poison Control Center says there are 250 to 300 rattlesnake bites reported statewide each year, but the center only records one or two deaths.

Even though they know the risks, locals don't feel concerned if they haven't encountered them.

"I've never seen a snake," Trish Hahn said. "We're in Rancho Mirage, but I've never seen one."

While locals may not see rattlesnakes on a daily basis, one local nurse is warning others that just because they don't see them, doesn't mean they aren't there.

"A year or two ago, when I got to the top of the 'Bump and Grind,' there was an older woman that was sitting on a rock," Jillian Hefferton said. "And she had been feeding the wildlife and a snake came out and bit her on the finger."

Hefferton said she was able to help the woman and call emergency services, but it stood as a reminder to the community to be on the look out.

"We're always told don't feed the wildlife for food reason," Hefferton said. "But I think it's important that we just stay on the trail."

Other hikers shared more tips for staying safe on the trails.

"I did wear higher socks and more supportive shows to avoid if I did accidentally get bit by something," Joan Eddy said.

"I think you always need to go on the trail with a buddy," Julie Williams said. "So if something does happen that you can go run for help."

Local nurse Hefferton said if you are bit by a rattlesnake at any time, the best thing you can do is put pressure on the area to keep it from traveling through your bloodstream. She said to keep drinking water, seek medical attention and remain calm.

Stay with News Channel 3 to hear more from visiting and local hikers on advice for rattlesnake season.