Boy Bitten By Rattlesnake at Little League Field in Blackhawk

The Tassajara Valley Little League is warning visitors to its fields to keep an eye out for snakes after a player's sibling was bitten earlier this week, according to an email sent out to area Little League teams.

The warning noted that snakes have been spotted at Blackhawk Fields, where the boy was bitten by a rattlesnake, and near the batting cages at Sycamore Park, 299 Holbrook Drive.

The child was taken to Children's Hospital in Oakland for treatment.

According to the California Poison Control Center, about 800 people are bitten a year, with most bites occurring between April and October when snakes are most active. About 25 percent of bites are "dry," meaning no venom is injected, but treatment is still requires. About two people a year die.

Here are some tips for what to do if you encounter a snake:

Avoid Being Bitten

Snakes are naturally shy and their first form of defense is to move away from danger. Humans are seen as danger. However, if provoked or cornered, a snake may attempt to protect itself by striking. People are most likely to be bitten when attempting to kill or handle a snake. Although snakes move at the speed of a fast walk, they can strike very rapidly if aroused. To avoid being bitten:

• Move away and let the snake go on its way; never try to kill or handle a snake;
• Be alert at all times in the bush, especially in the early morning when snakes are more likely to be sunning themselves;
• Cover up with trousers and enclosed shoes when walking and gardening in overgrown places;
• Avoid walking through long grass;
• Avoid putting your hand into hollow logs or rock crevices; and

• Keep pets well away from snakes and lizards.

First Aid Treatment

• Do not wash the wound. Medical staff can use excess venom to identify the snake. Venom travels through the lymph system, which is close to the surface. 
• Apply a firm pressure bandage over the bitten area and around the affected limb, using a crepe or conforming bandage or other suitable material such as pantyhose. Bandage from the bite to the fingers or toes then up to the armpit or groin.Apply a splint to immobilize the limb. Do not give alcohol, food or drugs as these will stimulate fluid movement.
• Keep the patient still, by having them lie down.
• Reassure the patient.
• Call an ambulance on 911 or take the patient to hospital.
• Monitor the patient for deterioration. 
• Be prepared to administer CPR if needed.