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You are at: NWS Home » SRH Home » SR News » 2004 » West Texas Rattlesnake
West Texas Rattlesnake Bits Off More Then He Can Chew
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Lubbock WFO Electronics Technician John Hickman show rattlesnake that struck his boot. |
Heavy duty, high top work boots saved the day recently for NWS Electronics Technician John Hickman of WFO Lubbock, Texas. Hickman was walking near the NWS wind profiler site in Jayton September 17, when a rattlesnake suddenly struck without warning.
The strike occurred in an area overgrown with scrub brush and mesquite. Hickman says, "The snake was hidden from view and didn't rattle until after the bite." He said the snake struck about an inch below the top of his boot, but couldn't penetrate the tough leather.
Southern Region Headquarters Engineer and Safety Officer Terry Brisbin noted the brush in the area had grown quickly due to persistent rainfall during the last several months. The snake's coloring also made it difficult to spot. He says it was fortunate Hickman was wearing the boots. "We always encourage our employees to wear the appropriate clothing and protective footwear when in the field," said Brisbin. "Hickman was lucky of course, but he also helped create his own good fortune by being wise enough to protect himself."
To view the Jayton Wind Profiler site, visit: http://www.profiler.noaa.gov/jsp/images/sitephoto/JTNT2.jpg
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Hickman points to the spot on boot that took the strike. |
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