Treating snake bites
Q I would imagine it’s a fairly rare scenario, but what should I do if I get bitten by a snake while walking? Rich Mooreton, Doncaster
Rob says Luckily, Britain isn’t home to many snakes. In fact there are only three species native to the UK – adder, grass snake and smooth snake – and of those only the adder is venomous. But if you (or someone you’re with) are unfortunate enough to get bitten by one there are some ‘ do’s and don’ts’:
DO…
Remain calm and don’t panic. Snake bites, particularly those in the UK, usually aren’t serious and are only very rarely deadly. Try to remember the shape, size and colour of the snake to aid any medical treatment. Keep the part of the body that has been bitten as still as possible, to prevent the venom from spreading in the body. Remove jewellery and watches from the bitten limb, as they could cut into the skin if the limb swells. Do not attempt to remove any clothing, but loosen clothing if possible. Seek immediate medical attention.
DO NOT...
Try to suck the venom out of the bite. Try to cut the venom out of the bite or make it bleed. Rub anything into the wound or apply ice, heat or chemicals. Leave someone who has been bitten on their own. Put anything around the bitten limb to stop the spread of venom (such as a tight pressure band, tourniquet or ligature) as it won’t help, and can cause swelling or make it worse. It could also damage the limb and potentially lead to the need for amputation. Try to catch or kill the snake.