Dr. MJ Bazos MD, Patient Handout

Snakebites: Reducing Your Risk

How can I avoid snakebites?

Snakes are most active in the spring, early summer and fall. Most snakebites occur between April and October, when outdoor activities are popular. Here are some things you can do to reduce your risk of snakebite:

• Regularly trim hedges, keep your lawn mowed and remove brush from your yard and any nearby vacant lots. This will reduce the number of places where snakes like to live.
• Don't allow children to play in vacant, weed-infested lots.
• Always use tongs when moving firewood, brush or lumber. This will safely expose any snakes that may be hidden underneath.
• When moving through areas with tall grass and weeds, always poke at the ground ahead of you with a long stick or pole to scare any snakes away.
• Wear loose, long pants and tall boots when working or walking in areas where snakes are likely to be.
• Never handle snakes, even dead ones.
• Always sleep on a cot when camping in snake-infested areas.

What should I do if I get a snakebite?

A bite from a poisonous snake is a medical emergency. If you have been bitten by any snake, remain calm and call for help. Never apply ice to a snakebite, because it can make your symptoms worse. Also, you should never cut the place that has been bitten and try to suck out the venom. If you are alone, try to get to the nearest hospital as soon as you can.