08/21/2026
🐍 What To Do If You're Bitten by a Snake
If you or someone else is bitten by a snake, stay calm and act quickly.
✅ DO:
• Move away from the snake to prevent another bite.
• Call 911 immediately or get to the nearest emergency department as soon as possible.
• Stay as calm as possible and limit movement.
• Keep the bitten limb as still as you can in a comfortable, heart-level (neutral) position.
• Remove rings, watches, or tight clothing before swelling begins.
• If it can be done safely, take a photo of the snake from a distance—but never try to catch or kill it.
❌ DON'T:
• Cut the bite.
• Try to suck out the venom.
• Apply ice or cold packs.
• Apply a tourniquet.
• Drink alcohol.
• Delay seeking medical care, even if the bite doesn't seem serious.
Prompt medical treatment gives the best chance for a full recovery. If you think a snake may have been venomous, treat every bite as a medical emergency.
Stay safe and be aware of your surroundings while enjoying the outdoors.
💙 Jewett EMS