Use the first several days and weeks of the divorce process to make your position clear. No matter how civil they are with one another, at some point your friends may expect you to judge the other spouse. Stay neutral, no matter what. You might say something like, "Charlotte, I want to keep being friends with both you and Greg. I'm sorry, but I won't be taking sides." You may also opt to take a break or spend less time with both parties until they figure out the details of their separation. Even then, it's possible that no matter how well-intentioned you are, one party could perceive you not taking any sides at taking the other's side. Sit down with both spouses and agree on some rules so that both friendships can thrive. This may seem weird, like another aspect of the divorce settlement, but it's necessary. Clearly outlining appropriate behaviors can prevent you from being caught in the middle of a tug-of-war. The rules you set will depend on your unique circumstances. Some suggestions, however, are including sections about not speaking poorly about one another, not expecting friends to spy, and not pulling rank (i.e. saying "They were my friends first!"). If it's illogical to expect both spouses to be present, create an online document that you can email to both. If all of you were mutual friends, the way your friendship works will likely have changed. That's okayjust change with it. Think about what you cherish and value about both friends. What kinds of things do you do together? Have separate meetings with each friend and talk about how your friendship will be moving forward. Try keeping your friendships event-focused for a while. Center your hangouts around activities or events. That way they will be more focused on what you're doing in the moment instead of on their divorce. For example, you might see one of the spouses regularly at the country club and play tennis together. You might be involved in the same community organization with the other. Use these "typical" routines as a guideline for how you might continue the friendship in the future. You and the spouses will also have to agree on a protocol for social events. If you host an event, will both be able to attend and act cordially? Think about how you want to manage their attendance at various social functions. If both spouses are able to act civilly, you might invite them both and seat them far apart. If both spouses cannot act civilly, you might suggest that the person most connected to the event attends. For example, the spouse who helped you with a fundraiser might be invited to the charity ball. Remember that you are not their referee. Even if you want both parties to attend, the decision is up to them. Let them know that the other person will be there, and let them decide if they can handle that on their own.

Summary: Make it clear that you're not taking sides. Create a workable game plan. Redefine the friendships. Decide how to handle social events.

No matter how you intend to pick up a snake, you should always ensure that it is not venomous. A venomous snake can strike quickly, and if you're anything short of a professional you could fall victim to its dangerous bite. Whether you're using a snake hook or snake tongs, you should have the tool ready and on-hand before you approach the snake. You should also have a temporary container ready and close by so that you can gently place the snake inside once you catch it. Some snakes are fast-moving and will not stay on a snake hook for more than a few seconds. If you cannot safely catch the snake and deposit it (gently) into the temporary container, you may want to consider using tongs, or leaving it to a professional. If you feel comfortable using an intact pillowcase as a transport container, that should suffice. If the snake is outdoors, or is too large or aggressive for a pillow case, you may want to use something sturdier like an empty garbage can. Be cautious if using snake tongs. These tools can be difficult for an inexperienced catcher to use, and could result in the snake being injured or even killed. If you're using a hook, carefully slip the hook underneath the snake's body. If using snake tongs, you should be able to simply grasp the snake using the tongs. No matter which tool you use, you should move quickly and carefully for both your own safety and the snake's. For smaller snakes, grab or lift the snake around the middle of its body or lower. For larger snakes, grab or lift the snake approximately 1/3 of the way down its body from the head. You should never grab a snake by the neck, as this could cause serious injury and may make the snake struggle and bite you. If you're trying to move the snake a short distance, you may be able to simply carry it to the desired location. Otherwise, you should put the snake into a container to transport it or await for professional animal control personnel. For smaller snakes, an intact pillowcase may suffice. Otherwise, use a deep bucket or, even better, a sturdy (and empty) garbage can.
Summary: Confirm it's not venomous. Have your tool on-hand. Lift the snake. Move or contain the snake.