Snake Bites: Important Prevention & Treatment Tips for Venomous Snake Bites Family Health Kids' Health Men's Health Women's Health Safety
It's summer, and snakes love hot weather. Every year, 7,000 to 8,000 people are bitten by venomous snakes in the United States, and about five of those people die, and more people would die if they did not seek medical care, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Venomous snakes that are found in the U.S. include:
- rattlesnakes
- copperheads
- cottonmouths (water moccasins)
- coral snakes
My husband and I have killed two copperheads this week in our yard, and have spotted four coral snakes. While we do watch when we walk anywhere and wear closed-toe shoes in the grass, we know getting bit by a snake is always a possibly.
Here are some important tips if you or your child get bit by a snake:
- Remain calm.
- Take a photo or the snake, if possible, or ask someone else to.
- Do not suck out the venom.
- Do not try to catch the snake.
- Seek medical attention immediately.
- Ask the hospital to call the poison control center.
To help avoid snake bites, always:
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Wear the proper shoes and long pants when in tall grass or hiking.
- Talk to your kids about snakes.
Get more tips about snake bites.
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