[OldDave]

You know the biggest problem for most of us, beyond the obviously irrational fear, is that other than perhaps a rattlesnake or a coral snake, I wouldn't know one from another.

It's kind of like picking wild mushrooms. It's fine, if you really, really, REALLY know what you're doing....otherwise......

Thanks for the responses. It does sound a bit like further from water is helpful. Of course being far from water here is about like trying to avoid sand in the desert.

Thanks again all.

Dave