[pct-l] snakes

[dude@fastmail.ca (dude)]

I would definitely be more concerned about tics than snakes.  

I have been camping in the dessert of the western United States for 
many years now.  I have never been very close to being bitten by a 
snake.  I have seen plenty, but just been cautious and calm, and 
never had any problems.

I don't carry a snake bite kit.  In my _opinion_ (which is worth what 
it is costing you to read it), you can never prepare for everything 
that you will encounter in the wilderness - that's what makes 
it "wilderness". If I was gonna carry a snake bite kit, then I might 
as well also take: splints (various sizes) in case I break my leg, 
and ace bandage in case I sprain my ankle, a eye patch in case I 
scratch my cornea, a mouth piece in case I trip and fall on my face 
and chip my tooth, etc, etc.

If you are an extremely cautious person and it will make you feel 
better to have one "just in case", then take one.  At least it will 
make you feel better, and that is reason enough.

peace,
dude

> Those snakes will really scare you, but if you use caution, they
> won't get you. Typically, they are afraid of us. However, watch
> where you step, put your hands, sit down, etc. If you can't see
> where you are placing your feet or hands, you may be in trouble.
> 
> The worst is when you are walking with others and those ahead go
> through a narrow spot on the trail just fine but a big rattler
> announces its presence when you are between a rock and a bush with
> no where to go.
> 
> If you feel better carrying a snake kit, go for it. And pray you
> never need to use it for anyone.
> 
> Marshall Karon
> Portland, OR
> m.karon@attbi.com
> (503) 232-5271
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Marge Prothman" <marge@prothman.com>
> To: "Pct-L" <pct-L@backcountry.net>
> Sent: Wednesday, April 17, 2002 6:31 AM
> Subject: [pct-l] snakes
> 
> 
>> Am just curious:
>> 
>> In the California section of the PCT, especially the southern
>> part, how many hikers carry something for snake bites and if so
>> what do you carry.
>> 
>> I think I am more aware of poison oak and ticks then snakes, but
>> am wondering if I should include something in my first aid kit.
>> 
>> Cheers,   Marge (the old gal)
>> _______________________________________________
>> PCT-L mailing list
>> PCT-L@mailman.backcountry.net
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>> 
> 
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