MAY 20, 2018

What to Do if Bitten by a Snake

WRITTEN BY: Anthony Bouchard

Snake bites can be scary; not just because they're painful, but also because it can be tough to discern whether the attacking snake is venomous or not. Nevertheless, remaining calm is one of the best things you can do after being bitten by a snake.

Attempting to run away or panicking will increase your heart rate, and that's the opposite of what you want. Increased heart rate will pump any potential venom throughout your body more quickly, potentially exacerbating problems.

Instead, focus and attempt to contact medical help as soon as possible. Delaying medical attention can make the situation much worse. It can be helpful to describe the snake that bit you for proper treatment, so taking a picture of the snake could be beneficial.

Avoid using ice, submerging the wound, or 'sucking' the venom out of the bite. Also, don't apply a tourniquet. Instead, lightly wash the site of the bite with soap and water and cover with a bandage until you can get help.

Obviously, the best thing you can do is avoid getting bitten by a snake altogether. The best way to do this is to give the snake its space and avoid handling it. Most snakes only attack in self-defense, and not because they want to.