3. Remove Tight Items
Swelling can develop around a snake bite. If possible, remove rings, watches, bracelets, shoes, or other restrictive items from the affected limb before significant swelling occurs.
Do this gently and without manipulating the bite unnecessarily.
4. Keep the Wound Clean
If it can be done safely without delaying medical care, gently clean the bite area with soap and clean water and cover it with a clean dressing.
Do not scrub aggressively or attempt to manipulate the wound.
5. Remember What the Snake Looked Like—But Don’t Approach It
If you noticed the snake from a safe distance, try to remember its general size, color, markings, or other distinctive features. This information may be useful to medical professionals.
Never attempt to catch, kill, or handle the snake. Returning to the animal to obtain a better identification could result in another bite.
6. Avoid Dangerous Home Remedies
Several traditional approaches can make a snake bite worse. Do not: