1. Don’t Panic (Stay Calm)
Breathe Slowly: Rapid breathing speeds up your heart rate, which can spread venom faster.
Assess the Situation: Quickly see if the snake is still around. Step back at least 6–8 feet, as snakes can strike up to half their body length. Ensure the area is safe before taking further action..
2. Call for Help
Cell Service: Dial 911 if you have reception.
No Cell Service: Use a satellite phone/messenger (like Garmin inReach) or a personal locator beacon (PLB) if you have one. Activate emergency help as soon as possible. Time is critical for minimizing venom effects and complications.
Whistle: If you’re in an area where others might hear you—on a popular trail or near campsites—blow three short blasts (a recognized distress signal). Pause, then repeat until you get a response or help arrives.
Nearest Help: If you can safely walk, move slowly toward a ranger station or populated area. Keep your movement minimal and your heart rate low to reduce venom spread, but do what you must to get assistance.
3. Keep the Bite Still and at Heart Level
Minimize Movement: Don’t run or hike at a brisk pace; it circulates venom more quickly. If you must move, keep your movements deliberate and slow to avoid accelerating venom spread.
Heart-Level Position: Keep the bitten limb (arm, leg, etc.) near the level of your heart—this helps regulate blood flow without cutting it off.
4. Remove Tight Items
Rings, Watches, Bracelets: Swelling often occurs, so take these off immediately.
Loosen Straps: If your backpack has tight straps near the bite area, loosen them to avoid constriction.
5. Avoid Old Myths
No Cutting or Sucking: Methods like suction kits, cutting the wound, or mouth suction can do more harm than good.
No Tourniquets or Ice: These may damage tissue or impair circulation.
6. Clean Lightly (If Possible)
Gentle Rinse: If you have clean water, lightly rinse away dirt or debris.
No Scrubbing: Avoid harsh chemicals, scrubbing, or ointments—these can irritate the wound.
7. Monitor for Symptoms
Swelling & Discoloration: Common in venomous bites.
Systemic Reactions: Watch for dizziness, nausea, vision changes, breathing difficulty, or numbness.
Shock: If you feel faint or see someone else going pale and disoriented, have them lie down with feet slightly elevated (unless that forces the bite too high above heart level).
8. Seek Professional Medical Care (Antivenom)
Hospital or EMS: The only proven way to counter severe snake envenomation is with antivenom.
Don’t Delay: Don’t assume you’re okay just because you “don’t feel too bad.” Symptoms can be delayed. Get checked as soon as possible.
9. Identify the Snake—Safely, If You Can
No Chasing the Snake: Don’t risk another bite.
Photo From a Distance: If it’s safe, a quick photo can help healthcare providers, but it’s not mandatory if it endangers you.
10. Keep Calm and Follow Up
Stay Alert: Keep noting any new or worsening symptoms.
Follow Medical Advice: If hospitalized, carefully follow instructions about wound care or possible antivenom reactions.
Long-Term Check: Snakebites may need follow-up to ensure no infection or tissue damage is developing.
References
Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional. Always seek qualified healthcare advice in the event of a potential venomous snakebite. If you’re backpacking in areas with venomous snakes, consider a wilderness first aid course to prepare for emergencies. Safe hiking!
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