Safety Tips: Snakes and Snake Bites

Snakebite season in South Florida is from April to October, as snakes are more active during warmer temperatures.

What to do following a snake bite:

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

Don't

- Be cautious around shrubs, tall grass, and areas surrounding canals, lakes and swamps
- Always wear protective gloves and shoes when working outdoors
- Look before sitting, stepping, or reaching near or around rocks and logs
- Avoid placing hands in areas that are hidden or concealed
- Use caution when cleaning debris for displaced and frightened snakes after natural disasters (i.e., hurricanes, tornadoes, floods)
Miami-Dade Fire Rescue offers a program intended for students and aimed at prevention, safety, and first aid for bites and stings from dangerous critters. A presentation may be scheduled by calling the Office of Public Education at 786-331-5000.

For more information on Florida snakes, download the Venomous Snakes of Florida brochure provided by the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Venom Response Team.

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Call 911

Florida Poison Information Center Network: 800-222-1222