**Surviving the Desert**

This information is precautionary. Only qualified individuals should
administer first aid. In the event of a bite or sting from any poisonous
creature, seek medical advice as soon as possible.

**Reptiles**

There are four venomous snake species at Tonto National Monument: the
Western Coral Snake and three species of rattlesnake -- Western
Diamondback, Arizona Black, and Blacktail. Non-venomous snakes in the
area include the Gopher, King, and Whipsnake. Lizard species include
Horned Lizards, Banded Geckos, and Gila Monsters -- one of only two
venomous lizards in the world. Reptiles are often a visitor's main
concern in the desert, but most of these animals are rarely seen.

**Spiders and their Kin**

For the most part, centipedes, scorpions, and spiders feed at night. If
you happen to encounter one during the day, give it the right-of-way.
Centipedes are about as poisonous as a wasp. Black Widow spider bites
should be treated by a physician. Most scorpions are not very dangerous,
however, the sting of the bark scorpion is potentially life threatening.
Tarantulas look dangerous, but their bite is no worse than a bee sting.

**Stinging Insects**

Tonto National Monument is home to many insects, including bees, wasps,
and hornets. Honeybees live in the caves and crevices along the trails.
Wasps and hornets are rarely encountered on the Lower Cliff Dwelling
Trail, but may be in the riparian area of the Upper Cliff Dwelling
Trail. If you are allergic to insect stings, plan accordingly. Bees,
wasps, and hornets are all attracted to sugar, so it is a good idea to
carry water instead of sodas.

**Desert Plants**

Agave, Teddy Bear Cholla, and Prickly Pear are but a few of the desert's
many spiky plants. If a thorn sticks you, wash the wound and apply a
bandage. If the spine is still imbedded, remove it with tweezers and
cleanse the wound. Because of the chance of infection, it is a good idea
to seek medical advice. Legends tell of surviving in the desert off the
moisture stored inside plants. Many of these plants are poisonous;
always carry water when hiking in the desert.

**Heat Related Illnesses**

From 1979-2003, 8,015 people were killed in the U.S. by heat. At least
35,000 people died as a result of the record heat wave that scorched
Europe in August 2003. The temperature of the human body is regulated
within extremely narrow limits and when the system is stressed, it may
cause heat cramps, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke. Anyone suffering
from a heat related problem should seek medical help.

Heat cramps are characterized by painful muscle spasms, usually in the
legs and abdomen. Get the victim to rest in a cool place. Give them
water unless nausea occurs.

The usual signs of heat exhaustion are cool, pale, moist skin; heavy
sweating; dilated pupils; headache; nausea; dizziness, and vomiting. Get
the victim out of the sun and have them lie down. Clothing should be
loosened and the body cooled. Give sips of water unless nausea or
vomiting continues.

Heat stroke is characterized by a temperature of 105°F or higher. The
skin is dry, hot, and red; the pupils will be constricted. This is a
serious medical emergency. Get medical help immediately.

**Reducing the effects of the Heat**

Hiking in the desert can be a wonderful experience if the proper
precautions are taken.

-   Eat lighter foods. A diet high in fat creates metabolic heat, and
    uses more water for digestion.

-   Slow down. Strenuous activities should be reduced, eliminated, or
    rescheduled to cooler parts of the day.

-   Take things easy, and become acclimated to the warmer weather.

-   Every minute spent in the sun contributes to the development of skin
    cancer and other problems. Even so, it is not totally necessary to
    avoid the sun.

-   Select a sunscreen with at least SPF 15, and apply it throughout the
    day.

-   Sunscreen is especially important while on, or near, the water. The
    surface glare can cause serious sunburn even if you are in the
    shade.

-   Apply sunscreen to your face and hands even if you are wearing a hat
    and long sleeves.

-   Light-colored clothing reflects sunlight and helps maintain normal
    body temperatures.

-   Sunglasses are a good idea, since prolonged exposure to the sun can
    eventually damage the eyes.

-   Your body needs water to keep it cool. Drink plenty of
    non-alcoholic, non-caffeine fluids, even if you don't feel thirsty.