Venomous Snake Aid

Signs or symptoms associated with a snake bite may vary depending on the type of snake, but may include:

  • Puncture marks at the wound
  • Redness, swelling, bruising, bleeding, or blistering around the bite
  • Severe pain and tenderness at the site of the bite
  • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
  • Labored breathing (in extreme cases, breathing may stop altogether)
  • Rapid heart rate, weak pulse, low blood pressure
  • Disturbed vision
  • Metallic, mint or rubber taste in the mouth
  • Increased salivation and sweating
  • Numbness or tingling around your face and/or limbs
  • Muscle twitching

Workers should take the following steps if they are bitten by a snake:

  • Seek medical attention as soon as possible (dial 911 or call local Emergency Medical Services EMS.)
  • Antivenom is the treatment for serious snake envenomation. The sooner antivenom can be started the sooner irreversible damage from venom can be stopped.
  • Driving oneself to the hospital is not advised because people with snakebites can become dizzy or pass out.
  • Take a photograph of the snake from a safe distance if possible. Identification of the snake can help with treatment of the snakebite.
  • Keep calm.
  • Inform your supervisor.
  • Apply first aid while waiting for EMS personnel to get you to the hospital .
  • Lay or sit down with the bite in a neutral position of comfort.
  • Remove rings and watches in anticipation of swelling.

Workers should take the following steps if they are bitten by a snake:

  • Wash the bite with soap and water.
  • Cover the bite with a clean, dry dressing.
  • Mark the leading edge of tenderness/swelling on the skin and write the time alongside it.

Employers should protect their workers from venomous snake bites by training them about:

  • Their risk of exposure to venomous snakes
  • How to identify venomous snakes
  • How to prevent snake bites
  • What they should do if a snake is sighted or if they are bitten by a snake

Workers should take the following steps to prevent a snake bite:

  • Do not touch or handle any snake.
  • Stay away from tall grass and piles of leaves when possible.
  • Avoid climbing on rocks or piles of wood where a snake may be hiding.
  • Be aware that snakes tend to be most active at dawn and dusk and in warm weather.
  • Wear boots and long pants when working outdoors. Even denim jeans may prevent some, although not all, bites by smaller snakes.
  • Wear leather gloves when handling brush and debris.