Snakes Displaced by Floods
We humans are not the only ones to be affected by floods, animals are also forced to flee their usual habitats. That can cause dangers for both the animals and for humans. The Orange County Health Department has issued advice for residents on what they should and should not do to protect themselves from displaced snakes. The problem arises because snakes are swimming through flood water to get to higher ground. Others are hiding under debris because they are scared by this sudden change in their habitat. Getting around in a kayak is actually a safe thing to do when it comes to avoiding snakes! If you are wading through flood water, you are much more likely to encounter one. So, what should you do to protect yourself? If you see a snake in the water, back away from it and do not touch it. However, you could get bitten by a snake without seeing one because flood water is usually very muddy and murky. These are the leading signs that you have been bitten by a snake: a pair of puncture wounds in your skin, redness, pain, and swelling. Depending on the type of snake that has bitten you, you may also develop nausea and vomiting, breathing problems, disturbed vision, sweating, and numbness. The best advice is to cover the bite with a clean, dry dressing and seek medical attention right away.
Rodents and Flooding
Many rodents are killed by flood waters but those that survive need somewhere else to live and that is likely to be in houses near the floods. They are looking for shelter and a supply of food so try to make sure that your house does not provide these! Store your garbage in containers with tight-fitting lids and dispose of it regularly. Don’t leave pet food hanging around and keep yards and gardens clear of junk that can provide a place for rodents to hide. If you think you have a rodent problem, call in the experts to sort it out!
Next Up:
What Are Floods, and How Are They Caused?The 11 worst floods in US HistoryWhat Is a Flash Flood? The Deadly Phenomenon Explained
