Page 44 - Arkansas Snake Guide

VENOMOUS SNAKEBITE Venomous Snakebite

DO’S AND DON’TS

Statistically speaking, your chances of being bitten
by a venomous snake are less than being killed in an
automobile accident or being struck by lightning. But
in the rare event that a venomous snake bites you,
following a few simple rules will increase your chances
for a successful recovery.

Snakebite symptoms include pain, swelling,
discoloration of the skin at the site of the bite, nausea
and/or vomiting.

Remain calm. Remember: More people die
from bee stings each year than from venomous
snakebites.
Remove shoes, jewelry and tight clothing from
bitten area.
Wash the bite site with soap and warm water or
rubbing alcohol to remove any excess venom.
Be prepared to treat for shock and possibly
administer CPR.
Get the victim to the nearest medical
facility as soon as possible. The best snakebite first
aid is a set of car keys.

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