Snake Bites

There are many different kids of snakes all over the United States. The poisonous are classified as Pit Vipers and Coral Snakes. The snakes to avoid are Water Moccasins, Rattle Snakes, Copperheads, and the Coral Snake.

A severe Pit Viper bite may cause death from shock within 30 minutes. However, most deaths occur 6-30 hours after the bite. As you can see it is important to STOP what you are doing and call 911!

A Rattle Snake

Signs and Symptoms:

• Fang marks
• Swelling and pain at the site of the bite
• Oozing at the site
• Weakness/dizziness/faintness
• Sweating and/or chills
• Thirst
• Nausea/vomiting
• Diarrhea
• High heart rate/ low blood pressure

What should you do ...

• STOP everything and call 911
• Limit all movement to prevent increased circulation of the poision
• Keep the site below the level of your heart if possible
• Dram a circle around the swelling with a marker and write the time repeat every 15 minutes
• Do NOT apply ice
• Do NOT apply a tourniquet