1.) First and most important - Children are not allowed to open cages or handle snakes for any reason if they don't have an adult present, one that is familiar with the pet. This should apply to any pet reptile and all children. Older children, especially teenagers, can have these rules modified, for small snakes only. See Rule #2 for large snake handling.

2.) Any snake over 5 feet in length is never handled by one person, only two or more. Unusually large snakes, say over 14 feet, needs three or more handlers, a 'safety net' of sorts, even if one of these people is just opening doors or changing water bowls. This goes for even the most docile of snakes, keeping in mind a large snakes can easily weigh a hundred pounds!

3.) Never make a snake think you are food. Really! If it's feeding time, use caution when handling your snake because it will be looking for prey. Don't smell like his favorite meal, either - i.e., if you've handled rodents, wash well before sticking your hand in a snake cage. Always feed your snake in a separate feeding cage, and always keep him caged. Don't turn him loose, no matter how difficult it is to move him around. A large, hungry snake can be dangerous. We've all read the articles in newspapers about this sort of thing.

4.) Never let a snake wrap around your neck. Another common sense tip. They don't have arm or legs, so if they feel like they are going to fall, they coil around whatever is handy, even if it is you. If the snake ahs any size at all, you could be in serious trouble.

5.) Keep large snakes in locked cages. Our largest are common Boa constrictors, 6 and 8 feet - a lot smaller than several other species, but they are in locked cages. the keys are kept in a safe place.

6.) Don't take your snakes out in public (unless it happens to be a herp show). A large percentage of people have a fear of snakes, and some people can panic or be hysterical at the sight of one. Face it, we're all afraid of something. Don't take the chance, keep your snakes private.

7.) If you have a young snake that is going to get large, start enforcing these rules now, make them a habit.

Adapt these suggestions to your needs. If you are only thinking about getting a per reptile, research the species you are intersted in before you get it. Find out how big it's realy going to get, what its specific need are. If you already have reptile pets, remember, you can never be too careful!