Watchung Police issued a warning to residents after a venomous northern moccasin snake was sighted in Hunterdon and Somerset counties, including on Scott Drive in Watchung.

The warning was issued on August 26.

Christine Boehm lives on Scott Drive and says she is worried about the four-legged members of her family

“It’s a bit scary with the dogs. I’m more worried about them, especially the little one. He could cause a lot of damage,” says Boehm.

News 12 spoke with Steve Lengen, the “New Jersey Snakeman.” Lengen says it’s unlikely you’ll get bitten by a copperhead unless you accidentally step on one or provoke it. But he does offer some advice for anyone who encounters one of these venomous snakes.

“Go the other way. There’s no need to run away, they won’t chase you. They have no interest in you or your pets,” says Lengen.

The copperhead snake is one of the least venomous snakes. However, anyone who is bitten is advised to go to the hospital immediately. The same goes for bitten pets.

“The risk of fatal accidents is higher with smaller animals… again, a large dog… I have heard of many dogs that were bitten and did not die,” says Lengen.

Boehm says she will be on the lookout for these creatures in the future.

“I didn’t think I’d have to worry about it here in Watchung, New Jersey, but I guess I do, so I’ll definitely keep my eyes open,” she says.

The police are asking residents to avoid contact with them and to contact the Environmental Protection Agency at 908-638-4381.