Protecting Homes and Family Members From Snakes
Anyone living in the United States, outside of Alaska or Hawaii, need to consider their risk of a snake bite when they are outside. All 48 contiguous states have at least one type of venomous snake and approximately 8,000 snake bites happen each year. Treatment for most types of venom is available from emergency services, but avoiding a bite is always preferable to treating the damage. There are many ways to reduce the exposure people have to snakes and to protect people when it is not always possible to keep a safe distance from a dangerous snake.
Create a Barrier
Protect yards and areas where children and pets play with a barrier from net, mesh or plastic fencing. It will eliminate most new arrivals to the yard, but it is not a solution that helps with any of the population already inside the fencing. Adding a barrier is easiest to do in small, contained areas. Including snake traps along with the fencing will help to catch some additional snakes.

Make it Undesirable
Clear away any tall grass, fallen limbs and other areas in the yard that offer hiding spots for snakes. Hire a pest removal service to reduce the rodent population of the property so they are not enticed with an easy food source. Avoid installing water features or over-watering the yard because snakes also frequently enter developed areas to seek water.
Keep Everyone Protected
Teach children and dogs to stay away from any snakes they spot when they are outside. Consider purchasing snake gaiters for all family members. It is impossible to snake-proof vast acres of meadows or forests. Instead, snake gaiters are easy to slip on over the ankles and calves and provide a lot of protection while walking through snake-infested landscapes.
There are a number of snake deterrents like moth balls, planting marigolds and using cinnamon and clove oil that has been proven to have some benefit. These ideas may help but are not usually adequate on their own. Employing a multi-pronged approach for the yard and wearing protective gear when out in nature is the most effective safety solution for everyone.
