How to stay safe in case you see a rattlesnake

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - As temperatures rise in Arizona, the Arizona Game and Fish Department say people may start seeing more rattlesnakes.

They say rattlesnakes are usually active from March through October, but warmer spring days can bring them out even earlier. In the spring, they are often out during the day, though hotter temperatures make them more active at night.

The Yuma Fire Department (YFD) says some of the rattlesnake calls it responds to come from West Wetlands Park.

"A couple times a year, we'll get a call for a rattlesnake there," said Francisco Leon, Public Information Officer for YFD. "We show up, safely remove it, and take it out to the desert."

Visitors at the park say the warning signs about rattlesnakes don't worry them.

"They're scared of humans," said Dario Arzuaga, a frequent walker at the park. "As long as you don't step on them or mess with them, they won’t bother you. Just watch where you're going, and if you see one, don’t get close."

Leon shared safety tips for anyone who encounters a rattlesnake.

"Leave it alone. Just go on with your day...Don't mess with it. Don't get near it." he said.

He also gave advice in case of a bite saying, "Don't try to suck the poison out. Remove any jewelry or anything to reduce the swelling...Call 911 and we'll show up on scene, and we'll begin medical interventions."

Officials say most rattlesnake bites happen when someone tries to handle or disturb the snake. The best way to stay safe is to give rattlesnakes space and pay attention to where you step.