With temperatures soaring across Inland San Diego and the marine layer retreating, rattlesnake season has officially arrived in East County — and county officials are urging Santee residents, hikers, and pet owners to take note.

The Southern Pacific rattlesnake, San Diego County's most common venomous snake, is already beginning to emerge from its winter dormancy. Rattlesnake season in Southern California spans March through October, with peak activity typically occurring between April and June, according to the County of San Diego.

For Santee residents, this is not an abstract warning. The trails surrounding Santee Lakes, Mission Trails Regional Park, and the open hillside corridors around Cuyamaca Street are prime habitat. Snake encounters near residential neighborhoods increase significantly during hot spells — exactly the conditions the region is experiencing this week.

Pet owners should take particular care. Data suggests dogs are 20 times more likely to be bitten by a rattlesnake than humans, and roughly 25 times more likely to die if left untreated. Most canine bites occur when dogs explore brush or rocky areas off-trail with their nose. Some local trainers offer "rattlesnake aversion" classes using scent and sound to teach dogs to recognize and avoid snakes.

If you encounter a rattlesnake in your Santee yard, do not attempt to handle or move it yourself. For snake removal in Santee, call San Diego County Animal Services at (619) 236-2341. Residents of contract cities like El Cajon and La Mesa can also contact the San Diego Humane Society at (619) 299-7012. If bitten, call 911 immediately, stay calm, keep the limb at or below heart level, and do not attempt to suck out venom or apply ice.