What to do if a snake bites you while hiking?

Keep the snake bit victim calm, keeping them still and quiet. Restrict movement, and keep the affected area at or below heart level to reduce the flow of venom. Remove any rings or constricting items and clothing as the affected area may swell. Allow the bite to bleed freely for 15 – 30 seconds before cleansing.

What should you do if you get bit by a venomous snake?

This can slow down the spread of venom if the snake is venomous….What TO DO if You or Someone Else is Bitten by a Snake

1. Lay or sit the person down with the bite below the level of the heart.
2. Tell him/her to stay calm and still.
3. Wash the wound with warm soapy water immediately.
4. Cover the bite with a clean, dry dressing.

Can snakes bite through hiking shoes?

Some snakes can bite through leather cowboy boots; however, most snakes don’t have the biting power to penetrate thick leather boots. But their thin needle-like fangs can penetrate thin leather boots and deliver a dose of venom.

How can we protect against snake bite?

How can I avoid snakebites?

1. Avoid places where snakes may live.
2. When moving through tall grass or weeds, poke at the ground in front of you with a long stick to scare away snakes.
3. Watch where you step and where you sit when outdoors.
4. Wear loose, long pants and high, thick leather or rubber boots.

How do you manage a snake bite?

2. Protect the Person

1. Move the person beyond striking distance of the snake.
2. Have the person lie down with wound below the heart.
3. Keep the person calm and at rest, remaining as still as possible to keep venom from spreading.
4. Cover the wound with loose, sterile bandage.
5. Remove any jewelry from the area that was bitten.

How do you deal with a snake bite?

If you are bitten by a neurotoxic snake such as a cobra or mamba

1. Stay calm and breathe gently.
2. Immediately apply a crepe bandage firmly around the wound, as if for a muscle sprain.
3. Do not apply a tourniquet.
4. Never try and suck the venom out.

How common are snake bites while hiking?

Although being bitten by a snake is somewhat rare, if you do go hiking it would still be great if you know how to take some precautionary measures in order to decrease the chances of a bite. And if the dreaded snake bit does occur, remember the first aid is important.

Do hiking boots protect against snake bites?

Wearing boots and long pants when hiking may prevent snakebites. Stay out of tall grass unless you wear thick leather boots, and remain on hiking paths as much as possible. Chaps or gaiters further reduce the chance of a snakebite in tall grass.

What to do if a snake is on you?

If you do happen to encounter a snake, follow these steps.

1. Stay Calm. The chances are that the snake saw you before you saw it – and it wants nothing to do with you. If it hasn’t retreated, it will lay still or release a warning sound.
2. Move away from the snake. We repeat, move away from the snake.