Chapter 7 · First AidVenomous snakebites in the U.S.
Chapter 7 · First Aid

Venomous snakebites in the U.S.

2 min read

There are two main groups of venomous snakes in the U.S.:

  • Pit vipers (crotalids): rattlesnakes (in the Southwest the most common is the western diamondback), copperheads, and cottonmouths or water moccasins (near rivers and streams). They have a heat-sensing pit on each side of the face, between the eye and the nostril, and vertical pupils.
  • Coral snake: red, yellow, and black rings. It is the venomous U.S. snake with red and yellow rings that touch. It doesn't need to "chew" to inject venom; its bite may hurt little at first and the (neurological) symptoms can take hours. Every coral snake bite goes to the hospital.

What to do

  1. Move away from the snake and move the victim away.
  2. Call 911 or Poison Help, 1-800-222-1222. If possible, let the hospital know you're on the way.
  3. Keep the person calm and still. Don't let them walk if you can avoid it; have someone else drive.
  4. Remove rings, watches, bracelets, and tight clothing before swelling starts.
  5. Keep the limb at heart level, still and in a comfortable position.
  6. Wash with soap and water if possible and cover with a clean, dry dressing.
  7. Mark the edge of the swelling with a pen and write the time; repeat every 15–30 minutes. It helps the doctor decide on antivenom.
  8. Take a photo of the snake from a distance if it's safe. It isn't essential: the hospital treats based on symptoms.