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Safety Advice
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There are a few things to
always be aware of if you are visiting Arizona. Many are
common-sense but are also overlooked.
You need to remember that you are essentially in the desert
- even when you are in town. Temperatures soar, especially
in the summer months into the 100s. Exhaustion from heat
hits fast and suddenly.
Protection from the sun is vital as fair skins
burn very fast, sometimes within 15-20 mins. Barriers
against the suns rays are vital (if in doubt see your
pharmasist). Young children and babies are especially
vulnerable so do take precautions. Some kind of headwear
when out in the sun (baseball caps and the like).
Watch for dehyrdration - drink plenty, that means
water, water and more water. Take to carrying a small
sports water bottle with you at all times and sipping
at it. When out in the heat avoid fizzy drinks and alcohol
as they do not quench the thirst.
Allergies cause a problem in the valley when the heat
rises so if you are visiting remember hayfever treatments.
Usually the problem eases once the temperature hits 100
as plants then stop producing pollen. Breathing difficulties
however hit many people in Phoenix, be prepared.
Snakes, Arizona is home to the rattlesnake. They can be
found all over the state and even "in-town".
Caution NEVER walk barefoot on rough ground or in tall
grass. Generally a snake will not bite unless harrassed,
standing on one is harrassment to a rattler.
When climbing always look where you are putting your hands,
snakes are found on hills and mountains and often at surprizingly
high altitudes.
Never hike or climb alone. Always take at least one other
who can get help in an emergency.
Take care or avoid swimming in lakes and rivers, SNAKES
SWIM!
Ensure children know the dangers of snakes and teach them
to keep their distance. |
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Snakebites - Symptoms and Action
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Usual symptoms following
a rattlesnake bite are some or all of the following: swelling,
pain, and bleeding at the bite dizziness, sweating chills,
weakness, numbness or tingling of the mouth or tongue,
heart rate changes and blood pressure, thirst, salivation,
eyelids swell, vision becomes blurred, muscle spasms,
improper blood clotting, unconsciousness.
Action Medical help should be sought as soon as possible.
Immediate help should be • Keeping the victim as
calm as possible • Removing rings, watches, bracelets
to help ease swelling • washing the bite area •
ease the pain by applying cold wet cloth
DO NOT Apply a tournique; DO NOT attempt to cut the bite
area; DO NOT suck the venom out; DO NOT give alchol to
the victim.
All this said do not let this put you off exploring Arizona.
It is a FACT that more people have adverse reactions and
more people are affected by bee stings than snake bites. |
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