What should a person do if bitten by a venomous snake?
Hopefully you are reading this before anything has happened!
It should be stated that we are not experts on venomous snakebite nor its treatment. We defer to your local medical personnel and their ability to seek out expertise to treat any bite from a venomous snake.
But some reasonable advice:
First, breathe calmly and distance yourself from the snake. Let the rush of adrenaline subside prior to action. Are you sure you were bitten? A rattlesnake bite will leave two distinct fang puncture marks, with immediate and lasting pain that will feel different from (and worse than) a simple laceration.
It is important to get help as soon as possible, either by calling 911 for medical assistance, or telling another individual to allow them to get you help. Go to a hospital or emergency room as soon as possible without running or driving yourself.
Do NOT:
- "take care of things" yourself
- apply a tourniquet
- cut the bite area
- ice the bite area
- attempt to "suck" out the venom
- give alcohol to the bitten person
Further Information Regarding Bites:
More information about Indiana's potentially dangerous snakes:
