The Art of Hiking - Hiking Alabama: A Guide to the State's Greatest Hiking Adventures - page 453

secrete can cause an allergic reaction in the form of blisters, usually about twelve
hours after exposure. The itchy rash can last from ten days to several weeks. The
best defense against these irritants is to wear clothing that covers the arms, legs
and torso. For summer, zip-off cargo pants come in handy. There are also nonpre-
scription lotions you can apply to exposed skin that guard against the effects of
poison ivy/oak/sumac and can be washed off with soap and water. If you think
you were in contact with the plants, after hiking (or even on the trail during longer
hikes) wash with soap and water. Taking a hot shower with soap after you return
home from your hike will also help to remove any lingering oil from your skin.
Should you contract a rash from any of these plants, use an antihistamine to re-
duce the itching. If the rash is localized, create a light bleach/water wash to dry up
the area. If the rash has spread, either tough it out or see your doctor about getting
a dose of cortisone (available both orally and by injection).
Snakebites. Snakebites are rare in North America. Unless startled or provoked,
the majority of snakes will not bite. If you are wise to their habitats and keep a
careful eye on the trail, you should be just fine. When stepping over logs, first step
on the log, making sure you can see what's on the other side before stepping
down. Though your chances of being struck are slim, it's wise to know what to do
in the event you are.
If a nonpoisonous snake bites you, allow the wound to bleed a small amount
and then cleanse the wounded area with a Betadine solution (10% povidone iod-
ine). Rinse the wound with clean water (preferably) or fresh urine (it might sound
ugly, but it's sterile). Once the area is clean, cover it with triple antibiotic ointment
and a clean bandage. Remember, most residual damage from snakebites, poison-
ous or otherwise, comes from infection, not the snake's venom. Keep the area as
clean as possible and get medical attention immediately.
If somebody in your party is bitten by a poisonous snake, follow these steps:
1. Calm the patient.
2. Remove jewelry, watches, and restrictive clothing, and immobilize the affec-
tedlimb.Donotelevatetheinjury.Medicalopinionsvaryonwhetherthearea
should be lower or level with the heart, but the consensus is that it should not
be above it.