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SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - Rattlesnake season has officially arrived in Santa Barbara County and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife is advising residents on what to do if they encounter one while hiking or near their home.
“Snakes are often misunderstood. They provide significant ecosystem benefits, such as rodent control, and are an important part of California’s unique biodiversity,” said CDFW’s Conflict Programs Coordinator Vicky Monroe.
The department said most native snakes to the state are harmless, however, rattlesnakes are a venomous species and should be avoided at all times.
Officials state that rattlesnakes can be found on both the coast and desert areas of California. They are often attracted to areas around homes with heavy brush, under wood piles where rodents can hide and even well-manicured landscapes where they can bask in the sun.
Many states have legalized marijuana for medicinal or recreational use by adults. This holiday season, California Poison Control System (CPCS) reminds all adults to practice caution when using or serving cannabis-containing edible items such as cookies, candies, pastries or beverages during holiday events and New Year’s celebrations. These items should not be prepared or served when children or teens are present in order to minimize the risk of accidental exposure. The risk increases with edibles because children love holiday goodies and brightly colored items. See edibles video here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-INP8IA9hPA.
“Children can be exposed to marijuana either by breathing in smoke or eating foods containing marijuana,” said Dr. Cyrus Rangan, Assistant Medical Director, CPCS Los Angeles. “Keep your home and car free of the smoke, and keep food or drinks in their original containers locked up away from young children or teens. Kids and cannabis don’t mix. Treat