Hiker meets tragic end following venomous snakebite from captured rattlesnake in Tennessee park
In a tragic incident, a hiker lost his life after being bitten by a Timber rattlesnake while exploring Savage Gulf State Park in Tennessee on August 8.
The incident occurred about half a mile along a trail in the park, located approximately 65 miles northwest of Chattanooga. Rescue crews were called to the scene at around 12:30pm.
The hiker, whose identity has not been released, was administered CPR at the scene but later died at the hospital. This unfortunate incident highlights the importance of following safety guidelines when hiking in areas where rattlesnakes are found.
Timber rattlesnakes, Tennessee's largest and most dangerous venomous snakes, are common in Savage Gulf State Park. To avoid encounters, it's crucial to stay on marked trails and avoid tall grass, rocky crevices, or piles of leaves where these snakes may be hiding.
Wearing protective footwear such as hiking boots and thick socks can also reduce the risk and severity of bites. It's important to be alert and aware of where you're walking, and to avoid putting your feet or hands anywhere you can't see.
If you do encounter a snake, remain calm and give it plenty of space—at least 10 feet if possible. Stepping off and walking around it carefully is the best course of action. Do not try to kill, throw objects at, or disturb the snake, as this increases the risk of bites and is often illegal.
If a bite does occur, alert others in your group and nearby hikers, especially children and pets. Carry some form of first aid supplies if hiking in snake-prone areas and know basic first aid for snakebites: immobilize the bitten area, avoid cutting or sucking the bite, and seek immediate medical attention.
The US Forest Service advises keeping a distance from rattlesnakes. If you're off the beaten path, wearing long hiking pants is recommended. It's also important to avoid wading through tall grass or bushes where snakes may be hiding.
For those planning hikes in Savage Gulf State Park or other snake-prone areas, it's essential to be well-prepared. Information about the best hiking boots for trail protection and the best first aid kits for accidents and emergencies can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Learn more about what to do if you see a snake on the trail and remember, respecting these creatures and observing these precautions is critical for safety.
[1] Timber Rattlesnake Encounter Safety Guidelines. (2021). Retrieved from https://www.tennessee.gov/twra/hunting-fishing/wildlife-resources/snakes/timber-rattlesnake-encounter-safety-guidelines [2] Snakebite First Aid: What to Do If Bitten by a Snake. (2020). Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-snakebite/basics/art-20057617 [3] Timber Rattlesnake Bite: Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment. (2020). Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/timber-rattlesnake-bite [4] Hiking Safety: How to Avoid Rattlesnakes. (2019). Retrieved from https://www.outdoorproject.com/adventures/hiking/articles/hiking-safety-how-to-avoid-rattlesnakes [5] What to Do If You Encounter a Rattlesnake While Hiking. (2021). Retrieved from https://www.backpacker.com/skills/what-to-do-if-you-encounter-a-rattlesnake-while-hiking
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