What if a snake bites you?

If a snake bites you

• Remain calm.
• Immobilize the bitten arm or leg, and stay as quiet as possible to keep the poison from spreading through your body.
• Remove jewelry before you start to swell.
• Position yourself, if possible, so that the bite is at or below the level of your heart.
• Cleanse the wound, but don't flush it with water, and cover it with a clean, dry dressing.
• Apply a splint to reduce movement of the affected area, but keep it loose enough so as not to restrict blood flow.
• Don't use a tourniquet or apply ice.
• Don't cut the wound or attempt to remove the venom.
• Don't drink caffeine or alcohol.
• Don't try to capture the snake, but try to remember its color and shape so you can describe it, which will help in your treatment.