Content
In a recent incident that left an Inland Empire family in shock, a four-foot-long rattlesnake invaded their home.
A video sent to KTLA by Ryan’s Rattlesnake Rescue shows the Red diamond rattlesnake slithering through a house located at La Cresta, an unincorporated community near Murrieta.
According to Ryan Jessup from the rescue organization, the snake moved from the home’s living room to a game room before being captured and taken away.
A Surprising Encounter
The rattlesnake is one of the most feared creatures due to its venomous bite, making its appearance all the more startling for the homeowners.
Although these snakes can typically be found in dry regions with rocky terrain, venturing into houses is not a common occurrence.
However, during this time of year, rattlesnakes are known to come out of their winter hibernation and search for food and water.
This particular encounter serves as a reminder for residents in the area to take caution and preventative measures when dealing with these reptiles.
Tips for Avoiding Rattlesnake Encounters
- Eliminate potential hiding spots: Rattlesnakes may seek shelter in piles of wood or debris. Clean up your yard to minimize potential hiding places.
- Keep grass short: Tall grasses provide good cover for snakes looking to ambush prey. Keeping your lawn trimmed will reduce the likelihood of attracting them.
- Proper fencing: Installing a rattlesnake-proof fence around your property can help deter them from entering your residence.
- Block potential entry points: Check your home for any gaps or spaces where snakes could potentially enter, such as under doors and around plumbing. Seal these openings to keep snakes out.
- Use caution while hiking: When exploring nature, watch where you step and be mindful of what might be hiding beneath rocks or in tall grasses. If you hear a rattlesnake’s signature rattle, back away slowly and give the snake plenty of space to retreat.
Rattlesnakes in Southern California
While it is not uncommon to come across rattlesnakes in Southern California, this instance serves as a reminder of the need for continued vigilance when living near their natural habitats.
According to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, there are eight species of rattlesnakes native to the state, with the Western diamondback and the Red diamond being among the most prevalent, particularly in the Inland Empire area.
What to Do if Bitten by a Rattlesnake
In the unfortunate event that someone does get bitten by a rattlesnake, immediate action should be taken.
Symptoms of envenomation include pain, swelling, nausea, dizziness, and difficulty breathing. The following steps should be followed:
- Call 911: Seek medical attention immediately. Antivenin treatments are effective only if administered within a specific time frame after the bite.
- Immobilize the affected area: Keep the bitten limb still to reduce the spread of venom through the bloodstream.
- Remove restrictive clothing and jewelry: This will help reduce swelling and potential complications related to restricted blood flow.
- Avoid cutting, sucking, or applying a tourniquet: These actions can cause more harm than good and may increase the chances of infection or tissue damage.
In summary, while rattlesnake encounters are relatively rare in residential areas, they do serve as a reminder for residents in the Inland Empire and Southern California regions to take precautions to avoid potentially hazardous encounters with these snakes.
By following the preventative strategies outlined above and being vigilant about our surroundings, it is possible to minimize contact with rattlesnakes and keep ourselves and our loved ones safe.
