If you’re reading this then chances are you or someone you know has been bitten by a snake. And while that can be a really scary experience there are some things you can do to help make the situation better.
First and foremost try to stay calm. It’s important to keep the area of the bite below the heart to help slow the spread of venom. If you can tie a bandage or piece of cloth tightly around the area making sure not to tie it too tightly as it could cut off circulation.
If the bite is on an extremity like an arm or leg try to keep it immobilized as much as possible. If you have a cell phone call 911 or your local emergency number for help.
It’s also important to try to identify the type of snake that bit you. If you can’t see it try to describe it to the best of your ability to the 911 operator or whoever is helping you. This information can be critical in helping to determine the appropriate treatment.
If you have a snake bite kit with you follow the instructions for use. If not there are some things you can do with items you probably have with you. For example a regular elastic bandage can be used as a tourniquet.
Once you’ve done everything you can to slow the spread of venom and get help on the way it’s important to just focus on staying calm and comfortable until help arrives.
What are some first aid measures for a snake bite?
Clean the wound apply pressure to the area and immobilize the limb.
What are some symptoms of a venomous snake bite?
Symptoms may include swelling bruising pain redness and numbness.
What should you not do if you are bitten by a venomous snake?
Do not try to suck out the venom cut the wound or apply a tourniquet.
How can you tell if a snake is venomous?
Venomous snakes are often brightly colored have a triangular head and may have a pit between the eye and nostril.
What kind of snake is the most venomous?
The most venomous snakes include the inland taipan the eastern brown snake and the tiger snake.
Where do venomous snakes live?
Venomous snakes can be found on every continent except Antarctica.
How often do snake bites occur?
Snake bites are relatively rare with an estimated 7000 to 8000 people being bitten by venomous snakes each year.
What are the chances of dying from a snake bite?
The chances of dying from a snake bite are relatively low with an estimated 2% to 5% of people who are bitten by venomous snakes dying from the venom.
What should you do if you see a snake?
If you see a snake you should stay away from it and not try to touch or capture it.
What are some ways to avoid getting bitten by a snake?
Some ways to avoid getting bitten by a snake include wearing long pants and shoes when hiking avoiding tall grass and weeds and not putting your hands or feet in places where you cannot see.
What should you do if you are bitten by a snake?
If you are bitten by a snake you should seek medical attention immediately.
How long does it take for symptoms of a venomous snake bite to appear?
Symptoms of a venomous snake bite can appear within minutes or hours after the bite.
What are the long-term effects of a venomous snake bite?
Long-term effects of a venomous snake bite can include tissue damage infection scarring and amputation.
How can you treat a snake bite at home?
You should not try to treat a snake bite at home.
Seek medical attention immediately.
What are some common myths about snake bites?
Some common myths about snake bites include that you should suck out the venom or apply a tourniquet.
