Snake Bite Prevention and Treatment

 During the summer months, many of us head outdoors. But that proximity can raise your risk of something you don’t want: a surprise encounter with a venomous snake. Most bites happen when people accidentally step on or come across a snake—scaring it and triggering a defensive bite. Here are a few precautions to help you stay safe:
Steer clear of places where snakes tend to hide. Snakes favor spots where they’re not easily seen, such as tall grass, piles of leaves and wood, brush, and deep holes in the ground.
Be on the lookout. Watch where you step and where you sit outdoors. Shine a flashlight on paths when walking outside at night. If you see a snake, back away slowly.
Dress protectively. Wear loose, long pants and high, thick leather or rubber boots in areas prone to poisonous snakes.
Make your presence known. When moving through tall grass or leaves, poke at the ground in front of you with a long stick to scare away snakes that might be nearby.
Never handle a snake. That’s even if you think it’s dead. Recently killed snakes can still bite by reflex, even ones with severed heads.
Buddy up. It’s best not to venture out alone in an area that may be home to venomous snakes. If you must go solo, make sure you have a fully charged mobile phone and will be in an area where your phone gets a signal.
If you do get a bite…
Try to remember the color and shape of the snake. Identifying the snake can help with treatment.
Don’t panic. Stay still. This can slow down the spread of venom if the snake that bit you is venomous. Get medical help as soon as possible.
Take protective steps if you can’t get to a hospital right away. Keep the part of your body that was bitten below the level of your heart. Try to wash the bite with soap and water and cover it with a clean, dry dressing.
What not to do…
Don’t apply a tourniquet.
Don’t slash the wound with a knife.
Don’t suck out the venom.
Don’t apply ice or immerse the wound in water.
Don’t drink alcohol as a pain killer or anything with caffeine.
A free class will be held at Henry Mayo Fitness and Health on September 7 at 5:30 p.m. on Hiking and Venomous Snake Bite Prevention and Treatment.
Go to henrymayo.com/classes to register.