If you’re unlucky enough to get bitten by a snake there are some things you need to do (and not do) to ensure the best possible outcome.
First and foremost try to remain calm. It’s easy to panic when you’ve been bitten by a snake but it’s important to remember that most snake bites are not fatal.
Next remove any jewelry or tight clothing from the area of the bite. This is important because swelling can occur and you don’t want anything constricting the area.
If you can try to identify the type of snake that bit you. This will be helpful for medical personnel in determining the best course of treatment. If you can’t identify the snake don’t worry there are still things that can be done.
If the bite is on an extremity try to keep the affected area lower than the level of your heart. This will help to slow the spread of venom.
Call for medical help immediately. Do not try to drive yourself to the hospital as this could make the situation worse.
Try to remain still and keep the affected area immobile. Do not try to suck out the venom or make any cuts on the skin.
Snake bites can be scary but if you remain calm and follow the proper steps the chances of a full recovery are very good.
What is the most important thing to do when you are bitten by a snake?
Answer 1: Seek medical attention immediately.
What are some signs and symptoms of a snake bite?
Answer 2: swelling redness pain and tenderness at the bite site as well as nausea vomiting and dizziness.
What should you NOT do when you are bitten by a snake?
Answer 3: Do not try to capture or kill the snake.
Should you try to suck out the venom from a snake bite?
Answer 4: No.
This is a myth and it will not help.
How long does it take for symptoms of a snake bite to appear?
Answer 5: Symptoms can appear within minutes or hours.
What is the best way to prevent a snake bite?
Answer 6: Avoiding areas where snakes are known to live and wearing thick clothing and boots when hiking in areas where snakes are present.
What are some common snakes in the United States?
Answer 7: Rattlesnakes copperheads and water moccasins.
What should you do if you see a snake?
Answer 8: Remain calm and give the snake a wide berth.
Do not try to kill or capture it.
What is the best way to treat a snake bite?
Answer 9: Call 911 or seek medical attention immediately.
Do not try to remove the venom yourself.
What are the consequences of a snake bite if left untreated?
Answer 10: Severe tissue damage organ failure and death.
What is the best way to transport someone who has been bitten by a snake?
Answer 11: Keep the person calm and still and have someone else call for medical help.
How many people die from snake bites in the United States each year?
Answer 12: Six to eight.
What are some common myths about snake bites?
Answer 13: That you should suck out the venom that you should try to kill the snake or that snake bites are not serious.
What is the best way to avoid being bitten by a snake?
Answer 14: Be aware of your surroundings avoid areas where snakes are known to live and wear thick clothing and boots when hiking in areas where snakes are present.
What should you do if you are bitten by a snake?
Answer 15: Seek medical attention immediately and do not try to remove the venom yourself or capture the snake.
