The easiest way to avoid dying from a snake bite is to avoid being bitten. The best way to do so is to never pick up a wild snake -- ever. Only 12 people in the US die by snake bites every year and they are usually under the influence of alcohol. 30% of reported bites are known as "dry bites" in which no venom is released.
Prevention
- Never pick up a wild snake
- Never try to kill or approach a snake
- Avoid sudden movement if a snake is encountered
- Try to wear thick or heavy clothing when snakes are expected
- Avoid reaching to places without visibility (especially for climbers)
- Tapping the ground with a walking stick or stomping will cause snakes to hide.
- Avoid disturbing places a snake might hide (logs, rocks, etc.)
Deadly Snakes
In the US there are two distinct types of deadly snakes: pit vipers and elapids. Pit vipers include rattlesnakes, copperheads and cottonmouths (water moccasin). The only dangerous elapid is the corral snake. Pit viper bites are immediately very painful but elapid bites do not start to hurt until hours later. Never assume a snake bite is harmless because a lack of pain. Take every unknown snake seriously.
If Bitten DO NOT
- DO NOT Attempt to kill the snake
- DO NOT Make a tourniquet
- DO NOT Attempt to suck out the venom (by mouth or otherwise)
- DO NOT Cut the bite area
- DO NOT Let the eat/drink (especially drugs, pharmaceuticals and alcohol)
- DO NOT Use antivenom in the wilderness
If Bitten
- Move away from the snake
- Remain as common as possible (stay assured that everything will be okay)
- Try not to exert yourself or move too much
- Treat for shock if necessary
- Keep injured area below heart level
- Disinfect wound
- If available, wrap bandage staring 2-4 inches above the wound (closer to the heart) down to the bite itself. Make sure the bandage is not extremely tight as to cut off circulation.
- Call 911 and get to a hospital as soon as possible
Sources
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