Thailand flood warnings

Thailand flood warnings: Crocodiles, snakes and centipedes. Oh, my!

A new report advises Thais how to cope with all the creepy-crawlies the floods have flushed out

13 October, 2011

Thailand declared a third of its provinces to be disaster zones due to widespread flooding in the country. In addition to fears of disease, the waters are also bringing in pests like snakes, centipedes and scorpions.

As Thailand battles the worst floods it's seen in decades, a few new threats have emerged: snakes, crocodiles and poisonous insects.
News reports say that more than 100 crocs have escaped from a flooded farm in Thailand's Uthai Thani province, though government officials say people shouldn't worry too much as they're not as fierce as wild ones -- a suggestion many find laughable.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Public Health has reported a rise in the number of snake bites since the floods began in July.
More on CNNGo: Updated Thai flood info for tourists
In response to the all these dangerous and poisonous creatures spotted in and out of the waters, from centipedes to scorpions, the Bangkok Post has called on a few experts to offer some tips on how to protect oneself against them.
Warning: they're not the kind of tips that are going to ease your mind. For example: "As a safeguard against snakes, people should hit the ground or water with a wooden stick before stepping forward.
"However, the noise can alert crocodiles to attack them. Therefore stay quiet if you spot one. When attacked by the beast, try to stick in a wooden wedge before it is able to lock its jaws on you. It is a very difficult thing to do, but it is better than doing nothing to save your own life."