That's a good policy. My corn snake has not failed once in pooping on every new person that meets her. Including my good friend who is snake-phobic, decided to give it a try, held her, realized she was actually pretty neat, admitted he liked her.... and that's right when she took the meanest one I've ever seen right in the middle of his lap. I couldn't even help clean it up, because it was RIGHT on his lap.
My girl is great for making awkward moments, it seems.
Towel is a great idea to have handy. Must remember that. Normally I keep paper towels, but an actual towel would probably be more effective.