First Aid For Snakes in General

 The danger of snakebites: People who go to wilderness areas, camps, hikes, and picnics or live in snake-inhabited areas should be aware of the potential dangers of venomous snakes.  Thousands of people each year receive poisonous snakebites in the United States.

Symptoms of Venomous Bites:

 Here are the most common symptoms of venomous snakebites:  However, keep in mind that each individual may experience symptoms differently.

v     Fang marks in the skin and swelling at the site of the bite

v     Bloody wound discharge

v     Severe localized pain       

v     Diarrhea

v     Burning

v     Convulsions

v     Fainting

v     Dizziness

v     Weakness

v     Blurred vision

v     Excessive sweating

v     Fever

v     Increased thirst

v     Loss of muscle coordination

v     Nausea and vomiting

v     Numbness and tingling

v     Rapid pulse

  Treatment For Venomous Snake Bites:

 Call for emergency assistance immediately if a snake has bitten someone.  Time is crucial! 

                                   The Do’s

                        *     Keep the person calm

*      Have the person lie flat

*      Keep the person flat till you get to the hospital.

*     Give a description of the snake to the doctor so he knows how much anti-venom medicine to give you.

The Don’ts

*     Suck the wound

*     Don’t put treatment on wound

*     Don’t cool the area that you were bitten

*     Leave the snake alone and don't touch it

*      Don’t give the person some alcohol