Global Courant 2023-06-01 02:44:00
Northern California has an abundance of hiking trails to explore during the summer months, but being prepared when exposed to wildlife and areas without cell service will help you have a good time.
Hiking in the Sierra can be exciting, but requires preparation before venturing into the wilderness. Dick Estel, a Sacramento Bee reader, then asked the following question read about what to do if you are bitten by a rattlesnake:
What do we do while hiking in the Sierra miles away from cell service?
Below are tips on how to avoid the snake in the first place, how to prepare for your hike – and then what to do if the worst happens:
Prevent a snakebite
In the U.S, about 1,000 people are bitten by rattlesnakes each year. To avoid being bitten by a rattlesnake on a hike, here are some tips from the United States Department of Agriculture to consider:
Prepare for your walk
Wear over-the-ankle boots, thick socks, and loose-fitting long pants.
Do not go barefoot or use sandals
During your trip
Stick to exploring well-used trails
Do not walk through tall grass and weeds
Watch where you step
Avoid wandering after dark
When going over fallen trees or large rocks, inspect the surrounding areas to make sure there are no snakes
Be careful when climbing rocks or collecting firewood
Shake out the sleeping bags before using them and inspect the logs before sitting down
Prepare for your walk in California
Hiking a new trail can be exciting, which can make it easy to get lost or injured in an area without cell service. It is important to stay vigilant on the designated trails.
“I can’t stress the preparation enough,” said Scott Elliott, Superintendent of the Sierra District, California.
Preparing in advance for the path you will be exploring will help you avoid accidents. Elliott suggests packing things like an emergency blanket, which is lightweight and reduces heat loss. It can serve as “something to keep you warm if you’re stuck on a trail after getting hurt, or also something you can use to signal a helicopter,” Elliott said.
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Below are some of them tips from the National Park Service to avoid getting lost:
Review your route before you hit the road
Pack a compass or handheld GPS
Be mindful of path nodes
Watch out for information boards
Keep an eye out for landmarks along the trail
Call 911 if you have an emergency, such as a rattlesnake bite. And remember you don’t need a cell phone provider to use emergency services.
What to do if you have no mobile signal
In the worst case, you’ll find yourself in a remote area with no cell service, or even injured. The best thing to do is to stay calm, Elliott said.
Below are some tips for seeking help if you find yourself in this situation:
Call for help
Many satellite emergency communication systems can send text messages and also have an SOS function that can send coordinates. They’re increasingly common among backpackers and park visitors, Elliott said.
Some iPhone users can make an SOS call from the lock screen. The call automatically dials one local emergency number and share your location information, according to Apple. One thing to consider, iPhone 14 phone models and those after can use the emergency SOS feature with satellite only and no mobile data or wifi coverage.
Self rescue
Enlisting help when you’re deep in the Sierra is decided on a case-by-case basis.
A good rule of thumb, if you’re injured, is to stay put and find shelter and get someone’s attention, Elliott said.
Below are some general tips for finding help if you are lost:
If you were to be bitten by a rattlesnake right now, “you wouldn’t want to run down to get cell service because now you’ve brought the venom closer to your heart,” Elliott said. In this scenario, it’s best to take your walking partner outside for cell service or seek physical help.
Follow these tips while waiting for help, according to the State Department of Fish and Wildlife and the University of California:
Try to calm yourself or your friend if they get bitten
Gently wash the area with soap and water
Apply a cold, wet cloth to the bite
Remove any watches or rings that may constrict the swelling
Immobilize the affected area If possible, photograph the snake to help determine the venom and proper treatment
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