Articles
Snakebites: First aid
Content
Caution
Venomous snakes in North America
Overview
When to seek emergency help
Symptoms
Treatment
What to avoid
Caution
Venomous snakes in North America
Overview
When to seek emergency help
Symptoms
Treatment
What to avoid
Caution
- Don't use a tourniquet or apply ice.
- Don't cut the wound or attempt to remove the venom.
- Don't drink caffeine or alcohol, which could speed your body's absorption of venom.
- Don't try to capture the snake. Try to remember its color and shape so that you can describe it, which will help in your treatment. If you have a smartphone with you and it won't delay your getting help, take a picture of the snake from a safe distance to help with identification.