Snake Bite - What To Do

Disclaimer: The following content should be used for informational purposes only. It should not be considered medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment for any medical condition. Always seek the advice of a medical professional.

Important Note: Poisonous snake bites can be deadly if not treated quickly. The right anti-venom can save a person's life. Call 911 and tell them you have a snake bite victim.

All snakes will bite when threatened or surprised, but most will usually avoid an encounter if possible and only bite as a last resort. Most species of snake are harmless and many bites will not be life-threatening; but, unless you are absolutely sure that you know the species, treat a snake bite seriously.

US snake-bite estimates per year:

• 45,000 people are bitten
• Most bites occur in warm weather
• 97% of the bites occur on extremities
• 8,000 (<18%) involve poisonous snakes
• 15 people die
• In comparison, 50 people die from insect bites
• 55% poisonous bites are from rattlesnakes
• 34% poisonous bites are from copperheads
• 10% poisonous bites are from water moccasins
• 1% poisonous bites are from coral snakes
• 70% of fatalities are caused by rattlesnake bites

** 2006 statistics from NIH and the City of Phoenix.

Precautions

• Learn to identify venomous and toxic snakes in your area.  For AZ, visit our Arizona Venomous & Toxic Snakes page.
• Avoid picking up or playing with any snake, unless you have been properly trained.
• Many serious snake bites occur when someone deliberately provokes a snake.
• When hiking, wear long pants and boots if possible.
• Avoid areas where snakes may hide, such as under rocks and logs.
• Use a walking stick, to tap ahead of you, before entering an area with an obscured view of your feet. If given adequate warning, snakes will attempt to avoid you.
• Frequent hikers should consider purchasing a snakebite kit & keeping them up to date.

 DO

• Call 911 or get medical help immediately.
• Keep the victim calm.
• Restrict their movement - create and use a loose splint for the area affected.
• Remove any constricting items or clothing from the victim.
• Keep the affected area below heart level.
• If possible, monitor the person's vital signs.
• If they show signs of shock, lay them flat, raise their feet about a foot, and keep them warm.
• If you have a snake bite extractor (suction) pump, follow the manufacturer's directions.
• Bring in the dead snake only if this can be done safely and quickly. Keep in mind, a snake can actually bite for up to an hour after it's dead (from a reflex).

Do Not

• Allow the person to become over-exerted.
• If necessary, carry the person to safety.
• Apply a tourniquet.
• Apply cold compresses to a snake bite.
• Cut into a snake bite with a knife or razor.
• Try to suction the venom by mouth.
• Give the person pain or stimulant medications, unless instructed to do so by a doctor.
• Give the person anything by mouth.
• Raise the site of the bite above the level of the person's heart.

 If you are unsure if the person has been bitten by a snake, look for the following.

Check them for:

• Fang marks in the skin
• Bloody wound discharge
• Swelling at or near these marks
• Skin discoloration
• Local tissue death
• Excessive sweating
• Loss of muscle coordination
• Fever
• Rapid pulse

Ask if they are experiencing:

• Blurred vision
• Burning
• Convulsion
• Dizziness
• Diarrhea
• Fainting
• Increased thirst
• Nausea or vomiting
• Numbness & tingling
• Severe pain
• Weakness