Measures after a snake bite – information on first aid

Snake bites are feared worldwide and most people have a certain basic skepticism from the beginning of their lives as soon as they move around in areas inhabited by snakes. In a previous blog post we already discussed in detail that when encountering snakes , it is more important than ever to behave correctly on the part of the human, as this has a significant impact on whether the animal feels threatened or not. Especially in tropical and rural regions , both locals and tourists come into contact with these fascinating reptiles more often than average. A bite cannot always be avoided despite good preparation and all precautionary measures. Once the snake has bitten, it is important to ensure proper first aid. The measures taken after a snake bite can be extremely crucial for the later course of events. WOLFGANGS has taken a closer look at the topic for you and summarized everything you need to know.

How to avoid snake bites

Of course, we would like to go into more detail later on about what measures should be taken after a snake bite. However, the highest priority during a stay in snake territory should always be to question your personal behavior and adjust it as optimally as possible. The following points are particularly important:

• Do not run in undergrowth or thickets unless there is no other option.
• Be especially careful at dusk and at night.
• When encountering someone, retreat slowly and calmly
• Always wear sturdy shoes with a good and comfortable surface.
• High heels are preferable as they provide better protection for the ankles from bites.
• Use gaiters in unclear areas to ensure even greater protection in the leg area.
• Carry a walking stick with you to create vibrations in the ground while walking to warn the animal.

It is also important that your sleeping area is adequately monitored so that no snake can stray into the tent, for example. If this is possible in a risk area, a sleeping area without direct contact with the ground is recommended. Carefully dispose of your leftover food and other waste and keep it far away from the camp so that no prey animals are attracted by the smell.

In case of emergency - measures after a snake bite

Above all, try to familiarize yourself with the measures to take after a snake bite as early as possible. As soon as you have decided to travel to an area with an increased risk of snake bites, it can't hurt to at least familiarize yourself more closely with the relevant first aid measures. Even if you only remember a few of the tips listed here, this will still increase your chances of surviving the bite without any further consequences or complications.

The following measures should be taken after a bite:

• The affected person should be removed from the vicinity of the snake immediately. Further bites would unnecessarily aggravate the already bad situation and increase the danger.
• The affected person should remain calm if possible. Panic attacks increase the risk of the poison spreading more quickly in the body.
• The limbs affected by the bite must be positioned or stored as low as possible. Here too, it is important not to move the area much and to keep it still.
• If possible, an initial superficial cleaning and disinfection of the wound should be carried out.
• The bite sites on the affected person's limbs should be marked with a suitable writing utensil. This will help the doctor to identify and analyze changes later on.
• If the bite is on a leg or arm, bandaging can be used. It is best to use wider bandages and bandage them from the torso downwards. They should fit tightly. It is also beneficial to splint larger joints to ensure immobilization.
• The affected person should definitely be freed from clothing if the situation allows it. Since swelling can occur after a bite, this should be treated promptly. Jewelry and rings should also be removed immediately.

Important : Always remember that the measures we have presented here after a snake bite are only points that describe first aid. Professional helpers must still be alerted immediately after the bite, as only proper medical care will ensure a lasting recovery. Use your phone or mobile device to contact the emergency doctor or rescue service immediately, or ask other people if they can help you contact them. Professional treatment by doctors is important and essential.