Snakebites from native species are a rarity in both South Carolina and Georgia. However, a few bites still occur every year. The proper response to a venomous snakebite involves both what to do and what not to do. Before snakebite treatment is necessary, the snake must be venomous. You can become familiar with the snakes of the region by studying the pictures and descriptions in this brochure. If you can be sure that a non-venomous (harmless) snake did the biting, you have little to worry about. Washing the scratched area with soap and water is usually sufficient. However, a venomous snakebite can be very serious. The following is a list of what to do and not to do if bitten by a venomous snake:
- Do not eat or drink anything, including alcoholic beverages or medicine.
- Do not run or engage in strenuous physical activity.
- Do not cut into or incise bite marks with a blade.
- Do not apply a constrictive tourniquet.
- Do not use a stun gun or other electrical shock.
- Do not freeze or apply extreme cold to the area of the bite.
- Try to stay calm!
- Keep the bitten body part below heart level and remove rings, watches, and tight clothing.
- Try to identify the offending snake if you can do so easily without putting yourself at risk or wasting valuable time.
- Get to the nearest hospital or emergency medical facility immediately.
Medical doctors who have experience with bites of venomous snakes of the United States do not completely agree on the details of first-aid treatment for snakebites. However, most doctors believe that the DOs and DON’Ts listed here have the highest probability of success in most situations involving venomous snakebites.
The best advice is to learn all of the snakes found in your region and avoid the venomous ones. If you are bitten by a venomous snake, remember to stay calm and get to the nearest hospital quickly.
