RATTLER BITES SCV MAN HELPING KIDS; HEAT INCREASES SNAKES' ACTIVITY.

Byline: Stacy Brown Daily News Staff Writer

Gary Fish found out the hard way what can happen when you approach a rattlesnake.

On Wednesday, while trying to protect two children at the Crescent Valley Mobile Home Park in Newhall, Fish was bitten on the arm by the venomous reptile.

Fish's wife, who declined to give her first name, said Friday that her husband was still recovering at a local hospital and felt a bit embarrassed.

``He felt a little silly about the incident, but he's doing better,'' she said.

Angie Leano, the manager of the mobile-home park, said residents are warned constantly about the dangers of rattlesnakes because the homes sit amid heavy brush and red-hot hillsides.

``We distribute letters all the time about snakes,'' Leano said. ``I don't think (Fish) realized it was a rattler until he was bitten.''

The past winter's record rains, which have resulted in heavy, fast-growing brush, and the current hot spell have prompted animal control officials to issue a rattlesnake warning for residents in outlying areas.

Frank Andrews, director of the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control, said residents countywide need to be alert to the presence of rattlers.

``Rattlesnakes become much more active during the hot-weather months as they search for food, usually rodents and other small animals,'' Andrews said.

Animal control officials said families living in areas in or near mountains, canyons and deserts can reduce the risk of encountering rattlesnakes by cutting down all underbrush within 50 feet of homes, garages and outbuildings.

Andrews said rattlesnakes prefer concealment, and removing the ground cover discourages the snakes.

Rattlesnakes are distinctive because of their broad, triangular heads, narrow necks, heavy bodies and set of rattles on the tail, animal control officials said.

``The snakes generally avoid human contact, but will strike at any sudden movement or if they feel threatened,'' Andrews said.

Such behavior is typical of rattlesnakes looking for flat, warm surfaces and shady spots to regulate their body temperature, biologists say.

HOW TO AVOID SNAKEBITE 

County animal control officials say the following tips should help people avoid rattlesnake bites:

Wear calf-high boots in areas that attract snakes.

Look before you step or put your hand on a rock or ledge.

Test hidden areas with a stick before proceeding.

If you happen upon a snake, back away slowly. Surprised snakes will bite in self-defense.

If bitten, stay calm. Walk, do not run, for help. Send someone else to call 911. Lie down if possible and keep the bite area lower than your heart.

Keep rodents out of your yard, and don't leave piles of branches or brush around.

If you live near an open space, consider installing a fence at least 3 feet high and buried deep enough to block snake entry through burrows.

Clear the yard of any places where rats or mice might nest, attracting rattlesnakes to feed on them.

Woodpiles should be built off the ground, while grass clippings and trash piles should be removed and disposed of.

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BOX: HOW TO AVOID SNAKEBITE (see text)