If you are bitten by a snake while hiking the first thing you should do is try to remain calm. It is important to keep the affected limb below the level of your heart to help slow the spread of venom. If you have a cell phone with you call 911 or your local emergency number for instructions. If you do not have a cell phone or if you are unable to get reception find a trail marker or another hiker and have them go for help.
tightly wrap a bandage several inches above the bite site and maintain the constriction. This will help to slow the spread of venom. If you have a Sawyer Extractor or similar device follow the instructions on the package and use it to suction the venom from the wound. If you do not have a venom extractor do not try to cut the wound or suck the venom out with your mouth.
Once you have taken these steps wait for medical help to arrive. Do not try to hike out on your own. lying down with the affected limb elevated will help to keep the venom from spreading. If you start to feel ill have difficulty breathing or experience any other concerning symptoms be sure to tell the responding medical personnel.
There are many different kinds of snakes in the world and not all of them are poisonous. However it is always best to err on the side of caution and assume that any snake bite is poisonous. By following the steps outlined above you can help to ensure that you receive the medical attention you need in the event of a snake bite.
What are the symptoms of a snake bite?
Symptoms of a snake bite can include swelling redness pain and numbness at the site of the bite.
How can you tell if a snake is venomous?
You can usually tell if a snake is venomous by looking at the shape of its head.
Venomous snakes usually have a triangular-shaped head while non-venomous snakes have a round or oval-shaped head.
What should you do if you are bitten by a venomous snake?
If you are bitten by a venomous snake you should seek medical attention immediately.
How can you prevent getting bitten by a snake while hiking?
You can prevent getting bitten by a snake while hiking by wearing long pants and high-topped boots and by avoiding areas where snakes are known to live.
What should you do if you see a snake while hiking?
If you see a snake while hiking you should give it a wide berth and avoid disturbing it.
What are the first aid steps for a snake bite?
The first aid steps for a snake bite are to clean the wound apply a bandage and seek medical attention.
What kind of snake bites are the most dangerous?
Rattlesnake bites are the most dangerous as their venom can cause serious injury or even death.
What are the symptoms of a rattlesnake bite?
Symptoms of a rattlesnake bite can include swelling redness pain and numbness at the site of the bite.
How can you tell if a snake is a rattlesnake?
You can usually tell if a snake is a rattlesnake by the presence of a rattle at the end of its tail.
Are all snakes dangerous?
No not all snakes are dangerous.
Only venomous snakes pose a threat to humans.
What are the symptoms of a non-venomous snake bite?
Symptoms of a non-venomous snake bite can include swelling and pain at the site of the bite.
How can you tell if a snake is non-venomous?
You can usually tell if a snake is non-venomous by the shape of its head.
Non-venomous snakes usually have a round or oval-shaped head while venomous snakes have a triangular-shaped head.
What should you do if you are bitten by a non-venomous snake?
If you are bitten by a non-venomous snake you should clean the wound and apply a bandage.
Are there any home remedies for snake bites?
No there are no home remedies for snake bites.
If you are bitten by a snake you should seek medical attention immediately.
What are the long-term effects of a snake bite?
The long-term effects of a snake bite can include infection scarring and nerve damage.
