Rattlesnakes are found across the United States in habitats such as mountains, prairies, deserts, and beaches. These snakes can often be found sunning themselves near logs, boulders, or open areas. Employers and outdoor workers can take specific preventative actions to remain safe in these diverse environments.

Rattlesnakes are the largest venomous snakes in the United States, and many species live across the country. They can strike quickly and accurately across one-third or more of their body length from any position, whether coiled or stretched out. While they may use their rattles as a warning when threatened, they do not always rattle before biting.

Copperheads are found in Eastern states and as far west as Texas, typically living in forests, rocky areas, swamps, and near water. These snakes are not usually aggressive, but they will freeze if frightened and strike if they feel threatened. If someone is bitten, receiving antivenom as soon as possible helps limbs recover faster and lessens the chance of long-term disability.

Adult copperheads generally measure about 1.5 to 3 feet long and vary in color from reddish to golden tan. Their bodies typically feature hourglass-shaped colored bands and a deep facial pit between each eye and nostril. To prevent bites, individuals should never touch or handle any snake and must maintain a safe distance.

Cottonmouths, or water moccasins, are found in or around water in the Southeastern United States. Adults are typically over four feet long and are dark tan, brown, or nearly black, with vague black or dark brown cross-bands. In contrast, juvenile cottonmouths display a bold cross-banded pattern of brown or orange paired with a yellow tail.

Coral snakes are found in the Southern United States, living in wooded, sandy, or marshy areas. They may hide in leaf piles or burrow into the ground, and are sometimes confused with nonvenomous king snakes due to similar colored bands. Because of these behaviors, workers should avoid leaf piles and tall grass whenever possible to minimize risk.

Snakes tend to be most active at dawn and dusk, as well as during warm weather. To prevent encounters, people should remain highly alert during these peak times when working or spending time outdoors. Employers can protect their workers by training them to identify venomous snakes and understand their active patterns.

When working outdoors, wearing boots and long pants can help protect against snake bites. It is also recommended to wear leather gloves when handling brush and debris. To minimize risk, avoid climbing on rocks or piles of wood and stay away from tall grass and piles of leaves.

Signs of a snake bite can vary by species and include puncture marks, swelling, bruising, blistering, and severe pain. Victims may also experience nausea, trouble breathing, a rapid heart rate, or a metallic, mint, or rubber taste in the mouth. Other potential symptoms include increased salivation, sweating, muscle twitching, or numbness around the face and limbs.

If a snake bite occurs, seek emergency medical attention immediately and do not attempt to drive yourself to the hospital. While waiting for medical transport, sit or lie down with the bite in a neutral position of comfort. Wash the bite with soap and water, cover it with a clean, dry dressing, and remove any rings or watches before swelling begins.

When treating a snake bite, never apply a tourniquet, ice, electric shock, or try to suck out the venom. Do not cut or slash the wound in any way, and avoid drinking alcohol or taking pain relievers like aspirin or ibuprofen. Additionally, never attempt to trap the snake or handle it, even if it is dead or decapitated.

Each year, between 7,000 and 8,000 people are bitten by venomous snakes in the United States, resulting in about 5 deaths. Seeking emergency medical care immediately is critical, as more fatalities would occur without prompt treatment. If you are bitten, do not wait for symptoms to appear and seek medical attention right away.