Rattlesnake bites are increasing in Arizona as the season begins with a surge in numbers, with most cases occurring at home. Most of these calls come from individuals living in their homes rather than on hiking trails. Walter Martin of Wickenburg was bitten while working on a project with his kids when he reached around a shelf and felt a sting. He was rushed to a hospital and airlifted to Banner University Medical Center in Phoenix for additional treatment. The leading bite scenario this year involves blind spots, difficult to see clearly, such as shelves, brush piles, garden beds and storage areas. Health officials have warned that anyone doing yard work, cleaning up around the house or supervising children outside should slow down and look before reaching into or stepping over any concealed space.