How can avoid snakebites?
Snakes are most active in spring, early summer and autumn. Most snakebites occur between April and October when the weather is warm and outdoor activities are popular. Although most snakes are not poisonous, there are several types of snakes in the United States of America are. These include the rattlesnake, The copperhead, the water moccasin or head of cotton and coral. In the United States occur approximately 8,000 venomous snakebites a year. Listed here are some things you can do to reduce your risk of being bitten by a snake:

  • Regularly trim hedges, keep your lawn mowed and remove brush from your yard and nearby vacant lots. This will decrease the number of places where snakes like to live.
  • Do not let children play in vacant lots, weed-infested.
  • Always use tongs when moving firewood, brush or timber. This allows you to safely see any snakes that may be hidden underneath.



  • When walking through areas with tall grass and weeds, always poke at the ground ahead of you a long stick or pole to scare any snakes fleeing.
  • Wear loose, long pants and boots when working or walking in areas where snakes are likely to be.
  • Never handle snakes, even dead ones. If you see a snake, slowly back away from it.
  • When camping in snake-infested areas always sleep on a cot.
  • Be aware of snakes if you are swimming or wading in rivers, lakes or other water such as puddles.
  • Learn to identify poisonous snakes and avoid them.



What are the signs of a snakebite?
You may not always know who was bitten by a snake, especially if this occurred in the water or tall grass. Signs and symptoms of a snakebite may include:

  • Two puncture marks in the wound
  • Redness or swelling around the wound
  • Severe pain
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Re breathing
  • Fever-like symptoms such as sweating
  • Numbness or tingling
  • Blurred vision
  • Diarrhea
  • Fainting
  • Seizures
  • Rapid pulse

What should I do if I get a snakebite?
A venomous snakebite is a medical emergency. If you or someone else is bitten by a snake, get help immediately.
What to do if you get bitten by a snake:

  • Remain calm and get help.
  • If you are alone, try to reach the nearest hospital as soon as possible.
  • Restrict movement as much as possible and try to keep the wound below in relation to the level of your heart. This will reduce the spread of venom.
  • Remove any jewelry or tight clothing near the bite before swelling starts.
  • Try to remember the appearance of the serpent, its color, shape and markings. This will help with treatment.
  • Cover the bite with a clean, dry dressing.

What NOT to do if you get bitten by a snake:

  • Never apply ice to the bite or soak the wound in water.
  • Never cut the place that has been bitten.
  • Never try to suck out the venom of the snake bite.
  • Never apply a tourniquet or try to stop the blood flow to or from the bite.
  • Never try to pick up or trap the snake.
  • Do not drink alcohol to relieve the pain of the snakebite.
  • Do not drink caffeinated beverages such as coffee or colas after being bitten by a snake.