Reducing these attractants is a key part of prevention. Keeping yards clean, removing debris, trimming overgrown plants, and controlling rodent populations can significantly lower the likelihood of snake encounters. Personal protective clothing also plays an important role. Wearing boots, long trousers, long sleeves, and gloves can reduce the risk of envenomation, particularly because most bites occur on limbs.
Studies suggest that over 90 percent of snakebites affect the arms or legs. This is often because these body parts are closest to the ground and most likely to come into contact with a snake. A “dry bite” occurs when a venomous snake strikes but does not inject venom. While this may result in minor pain, redness, or swelling, it is not possible to confirm a dry bite immediately.
