If you’ve been unfortunate enough to get bitten by a snake the first thing you need to do is remain calm. It’s important to keep the affected limb as still as possible to prevent the spread of venom. If the snake is still attached to the limb don’t try to remove it.
If you’re in an area with access to medical help call for an ambulance and wait for professional assistance. If you’re in a remote area you’ll need to take action to prevent the venom from causing serious damage.
The first step is to Immobilize the affected limb. This can be done by using a splint slings or anything else that will keep the limb from moving.
The next step is to keep the bite area below the level of the heart. This will help to slow the spread of venom.
If you have a cell phone call for help and give the operator your location. If you don’t have a cell phone try to find someone who does and can call for help.
If you have a first aid kit take out the tourniquet and apply it to the limb just above the bite. The tourniquet should be applied tightly but not so tight that it cuts off circulation.
If you don’t have a first aid kit a makeshift tourniquet can be made from a belt rope or scarf.
Once the tourniquet is in place wait for medical help to arrive. If you’re in a remote area and help is not forthcoming you may need to release the tourniquet and walk out for help.
If you release the tourniquet re-apply it every few minutes to keep the venom from spreading.
Snake bites can be serious so it’s important to get medical help as soon as possible. By following these steps you can help to prevent serious injury or even death.
What is the first aid for a snake bite?
You should call 911 immediately if you or someone else is bitten by a snake.
If the person who was bitten is able to remain calm keep the affected area still and remove any constricting clothing or jewelry then you should wait for medical help to arrive.
If the person who was bitten is not able to do this then you can try to remove the venom yourself using a pump suction device but this should only be done if you are trained to do so.
Once the venom is removed you should clean the wound with soap and water and apply a bandage.
