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Safety Tips: Snakes and Snake Bites

What to do following a snake bite:

Do

  • Remain calm.
  • Immediately call 911.
  • Immobilize the bitten area.
  • Keep affected area at or below the heart.
  • Limit victim's movements.
  • Remove all jewelry (i.e. rings, bracelets, watch, etc.), restrictive clothing and any constricting items before swelling occurs.
  • Safely try to observe snake's identifying traits (i.e. colors, patterns and size).

Don't

  • Don't use a tourniquet.
  • Don't drink or apply alcohol.
  • Don't cut or suck the wound.
  • Don't apply ice.
  • Don't attempt to kill the snake.
  • Don't touch/handle a dead snake.

Emergency Contact Numbers

Call 911

Florida Poison Information Center Network: 800-222-1222