Summertime is right around the corner, and that means it’s time to get out the essential sunblock and pool supplies! In case you’re planning on breaking out the pool noodles for your summer swim- you may want to check for any snakes that may be hiding inside them!

You probably never thought you’d be inspecting your pool toys for snakes. It’s especially important to show caution if you live in a climate or region known to attract snakes. Checking for snakes in your pool noodles may seem like a strange safety hazard to look out for. But odds are you’d rather not learn the hard way.

Are Snakes Hiding in Your Pool Noodles?

When it comes to creepy crawlers and slithering snakes, Arizona deserts are the perfect home sweet home. While some are completely harmless, others like rattlesnakes-are not. With Arizona being home to 13 species of rattlesnakes, if you hear their warning rattle- you’ll want to be sure to retreat to the other direction. (1)

Thanks to Arizona’s diverse landscape and warm climate, Arizona is truly the ultimate reptile paradise. The summer is no exception for snakes, as Arizona’s Buckeye Police Department has issued a warning to residents about snakes hiding in pool noodles.

Local residents originally reported a rattlesnake that fell out of their pool noodles when they went to go use them. Luckily no one was bitten. But to the residents’ surprise, they claimed to have found young rattlesnakes living in the noodles too. (4)

Following the reports, Fire Department officials in Buckeye Arizona continued their research on the reported pool noodle snakes for more information. The good news – the snakes laying eggs were NOT rattlesnakes- as they do not lay eggs. However, they did find additional sources reporting other snakes that laid eggs in pool noodles that were left outdoors near bushes and fences. (5)

Snake Safety

Arizona county Poison and Drug Information Center reports that there are approximately 150-160 rattlesnake bites reported yearly. Because their rattle makes a buzzing sound, rattlesnakes are also referred to as “buzzworms”. (1)

It’s important to stay calm if you come into contact with any snake, whether rattlesnake or other species.  To avoid unwanted snake encounters, take notice to where your hands and feet are landing at all times, and stay on designated trails. In case you do see a rattlesnake along your path, you may hear their “warning rattle”. That’s their sign to warn you to not come any closer. It’s best to stay calm, and give the snake a wide berth, move away and around them. (2)

But rattlesnakes don’t always rattle before striking, and not all snake bites are venomous. If you unlucky enough to encounter a snake that bites you, Keith Boesen, director of the Arizona Poison and Drug Information Center advises, “Go immediately to a medical facility for examination and treatment with anti-venom if needed. No cutting, no sucking, no tourniquets- just get to a hospital.” Luckily, Boesen states that deaths from rattlesnake bites are considered rare. (1)

Appropriate footwear and clothing is of the utmost importance when heading outdoors and in areas that snakes may be inhabiting. Steer clear of flip flops or sandals, and be sure to wear shoes or boots that cover and protect your feet. Though it may be difficult to wear pants in hot weather climates like Arizona, long pants can help prevent leg bites. (3)

If you’re traveling with your furry companion, show caution by ensuring that you keep them on a  leash. If straying from the trail path, dogs are more likely to get bitten. As an added precaution, talk to your veterinarian about snake vaccines that are available for your dog. (3)

This summer practice caution when heading out for a hike or becoming one with nature. While many people don’t aspire to have a snake encounter, once we step out of our homes- this place is their home too!