The weather heats. The snakes come out. Sometimes they bite and we all know, that ain't good.
Here's a little guide to help if it does happen.
The best advice? Don't let it happen. Stay alert when you're on the trail.
That being said, if you encounter someone who has been bitten or you are bitten by a rattlesnake bite, follow these rules:
Rule #1: Call 911 (If your phone doesn't work, go immediately to Rule #2)
Rule #2: GET TO THE HOSPITAL AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.
Rule #3: Monitor the patient's AIRWAY, BREATHING, & CIRCULATION but don't forget the goal of Rule #2.
Rule #4: Remove jewelry, watches or tight clothing. The bite will cause the area to swell dramatically and make circulation difficult.
Apologies to everyone about First Aid/CPR training dates being all wonky last week. Here's the real training days.
Overland MTB Club's CPR and First Aid Recertification Classes, Round #1
Date and Time: March 15, 2011 Review Class 6:00 - 9:00
March 17, 2011 Challenge Class 6:00 - 7:30
Both classes will cover CPR and First Aid. Remember, CPR certification is only good for one year, so everybody should need to recertify CPR. First Aid is good for three years, so you may not need to do the First Aid part. There is no harm done in recertifying First Aid more often. If you are not sure whether or not you need First Aid also, please contact Tim Gaines at gainses (at) frii.com to check for you.