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Like humans, snakes tend to be more active during summer. And chances are, if both happen to be in the same place and the same time, either one gets hurt. Oftentimes, though, it's the humans that get the bad side of the deal.
Each year, nearly 8,000 people are bitten by venomous snakes. Even bites from non-venomous snakes can cause allergic reaction in some people. When this happens, it is important that you know what to do.
First Aid for Snake Bite
Attend to the person quickly. Snake bites are often deadly; so quick reaction and right thinking are important.
Move the victim to safety. It might be possible that the snake is still at the area and may cause further harm.
Do not elevate the bite above the heart level.
Call emergency help or ask someone to call for help.
Remove any jewelry or tight fitting clothing from the extremity to prevent swelling which can result to tissue death.
Wash the bite with soap and warm water.
Try to keep the person immobilized as much as possible. Too much movement accelerates blood circulation and further worsens the effects of the venom.
Do not cut or suck the bitten area. Cutting can cause infection. Sucking the venom out doesn't do any good either. Do not use tourniquet.
Keep the area of the bite below the heart level.
If possible, identify the snake that caused the bite. Do not catch the snake. If you the name, at least identify how it looks or take the picture of the snake for identification at the hospital.
Continuously check the vital signs of the victim.
If emergency help doesn't come within 30 minutes, American Red Cross recommends wrapping a bandage 2-4 inches above the bite to slow the venom. Make sure that the bandage is not tight enough to cut off the flow of blood – the bond should be loose enough for a finger to slip under it.
Preventing Snake Bites
People commonly think that snakes are naturally aggressive creatures. The truth is snakes are as scared of us as we are as scared of them. They only attack if they feel that they are threatened – a natural reaction of any creature. Rattlesnakes create their distinct sound as a warning that they are there. As if saying that you should not get nearer or they will attack. Therefore, leave them alone. Stay away from the area known to be a breeding ground of snakes. Be cautious and alert when climbing rocks. Remain on the hiking path and stay out of tall grass unless you are wearing protective boots with thick leather.
Each year, nearly 8,000 people are bitten by venomous snakes. Even bites from non-venomous snakes can cause allergic reaction in some people. When this happens, it is important that you know what to do.
First Aid for Snake Bite
Attend to the person quickly. Snake bites are often deadly; so quick reaction and right thinking are important.
Move the victim to safety. It might be possible that the snake is still at the area and may cause further harm.
Do not elevate the bite above the heart level.
Call emergency help or ask someone to call for help.
Remove any jewelry or tight fitting clothing from the extremity to prevent swelling which can result to tissue death.
Wash the bite with soap and warm water.
Try to keep the person immobilized as much as possible. Too much movement accelerates blood circulation and further worsens the effects of the venom.
Do not cut or suck the bitten area. Cutting can cause infection. Sucking the venom out doesn't do any good either. Do not use tourniquet.
Keep the area of the bite below the heart level.
If possible, identify the snake that caused the bite. Do not catch the snake. If you the name, at least identify how it looks or take the picture of the snake for identification at the hospital.
Continuously check the vital signs of the victim.
If emergency help doesn't come within 30 minutes, American Red Cross recommends wrapping a bandage 2-4 inches above the bite to slow the venom. Make sure that the bandage is not tight enough to cut off the flow of blood – the bond should be loose enough for a finger to slip under it.
Preventing Snake Bites
People commonly think that snakes are naturally aggressive creatures. The truth is snakes are as scared of us as we are as scared of them. They only attack if they feel that they are threatened – a natural reaction of any creature. Rattlesnakes create their distinct sound as a warning that they are there. As if saying that you should not get nearer or they will attack. Therefore, leave them alone. Stay away from the area known to be a breeding ground of snakes. Be cautious and alert when climbing rocks. Remain on the hiking path and stay out of tall grass unless you are wearing protective boots with thick leather.
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