It is widely known among snake bite authorities that more persons die from snake bite in Texas than in any other state of the nation. This startling fact should encourage every Texan to obtain a thorough working knowledge of the correct first aid treatment for snake bite so he will be prepared to act promptly in the event of an emergency. In addition, and perhaps just as important, he should learn how to prevent a bite before it can happen. This means knowing where to expect poisonous snakes, how to avoid them, and how to identify on sight the venomous kinds found in the region where he lives. PRECAUTIONS AT HOME Statistics show that a large percentage of all bites takes place near the home and more than a few of these are inflicted upon small children playing in their yards. Therefore, let us consider first the possible presence of poisonous snakes around the home and some precautions that can be taken to keep them away. Each year Texas zoos receive calls from distressed home owners within city limits who have discovered rattlesnakes or copperheads under their houses or beneath trash piles on their property. These people ask for assistance in the removal of the snakes or for advice which may prevent similar future invasions. The trespassing snake often can be disposed of quickly, but the removal of one snake does not always solve the problem. Something must be done to discourage other snakes from taking residence on the grounds. The steps to be taken are simple; chief among them is the removal of all rubbish. Rock piles, trash piles, stacked lumber, tree stumps and other forms of debris near or under houses often harbor rats and mice which form the principal food of most snakes. In addition, this trash furnishes cover for the reptiles and offers them protection from enemies and bad weather. Therefore, if all rubbish is removed from the premises, the food and shelter which attract snakes are largely eliminated and the snakes are forced to seek a more suitable environment. Dense, low growing plants may also supply cover for snakes. Finally, the removal of rubbish and dense vegetation enables the homeowner to easily see and destroy poisonous snakes that may be present. In settled areas, however, where poisonous snakes are particularly abundant and present a serious problem, it may be necessary to take further protective measures. Dr. C. M. Bogert of the American Museum of Natural History has suggested the use of a quarter-inch mesh wire fence to keep snakes off residential property. This yard-high, snake-proof fence is placed around the house in much the same manner as an ordinary picket fence, except that the bottom must be set about six inches into the ground to prevent snakes forcing their way beneath it. In addition, all gates must be provided with close-fitting sills on the bottoms and sides to insure a completely tight enclosure.