SSSStep back and walk away

With the summer approaching and outdoor activities beginning to increase, the threat of snake encounters rises with the temperature. Most snake bites occur between April and October annually. However, experts say the likelihood of a snake bite is less than most may think. Additionally, the chances of being bitten by a venomous snake in Tennessee are slim but with a few precautions, safety measures, and knowledge of how to respond to snakes or a snake bite, the probability of a life threatening encounter is rare.
“Though the odds of dying from a snake bite are not high, the best way to avoid a worst-case scenario is to know the different types of snakes we have in the area, where they are likely to be encountered and what to do when bitten,” Vanderbilt University Medical Center medical toxicologist John Benitez, M.D., MPH, said.
With 32 species of snakes in Tennessee, only four species are venomous. However, out of the four species, only one is known to be aggressive. The Cottonmouth (also called “Water Moccasin) is the most aggressive out of the four, according to experts.   To view more, please log in or subscribe to the digital edition.