As temperatures start heating up, some people could find themselves going on nature hikes and wandering on local trails, but before you do, officials are warning you to be careful of snakes.
The Nevada Department of Wildlife tells us we're in the heart of snake season, March through October is when they're seen out the most, and they want to remind people that they're commonly seen on trails and in desert terrain.
They even shared a few tips to make sure you stay safe out there.
Kenzie Margiott, the Public Information Officer for the Nevada Department of Wildlife, said, "Remember the acronym SNAKE. Ironically, so sport those, you know, sturdy, close-toed shoes, long pants, never hike off the trails, always stay on the beaten path. Always look where you're going. Make sure you're looking before you step and before you reach. We ask that you keep all of your pets on leashes because dogs actually have a higher chance of getting bitten than us. An escape or exit. The opposite direction of that rattle or of that snake."
Making sure your pets are leashed or at least always within eyesight can prevent them from walking through tall grasses and bushes and lowers the chances of them being bitten by a snake.
The Nevada Department of Wildlife shared how important it is to stay aware and continue to look ahead while walking the trails.
Marigott tells us, "Ideally, you've seen the snake ahead of you because you're looking ahead for what's to come on the path. Let the snake exit peacefully. They don't want anything to do with us as much as we don't want to do with them, so give them 6 to ten feet, take a few steps back, and let them cross the path and get back home."
After talking to people who walk our trails often, they said they're not too worried about encounters with snakes.
They tell us they feel at ease knowing snakes just want to go their own way. If you leave them alone, hikers say they'll leave you alone.
Steven Gokey, a Reno resident, said, "I've been in situations like that and really just kind of just back away slowly and stay away from that area, cause if you don't mess with them, they don't mess with you."
Officials tell us that if you get bitten by a snake, it's important to do your best to stay calm because panicking can make the venom spread more quickly.
Bite victims should instead call 911 so an anti-venom can be administered as soon as possible.
