HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — As temperatures rise, snakes become more active in search of food and mates. Outdoor Alabama recommends some ways to keep snakes away from homes, such as getting rid of potential food sources like mice and maintaining a tidy yard by clearing brush piles and thick shrubbery.
In the case that you get bitten by a venomous snake the U.S. Army has some tips on what TO do:
- Get to a medical facility quickly. Call 911.
- Keep the person calm.
- Restrict movement.
- Do not move bitten area and keep it below heart level to slow venom flow.
- Remove rings or tight items.
- Make a loose splint to restrict movement.
- Bring in the dead snake only if safe.
- Do not hunt for the snake or risk another bite.
- If you have a pump suction device (such as that made by Sawyer), follow the instructions carefully.
U.S. Army also gives tips on what NOT to do:
- Don't let the person use too much energy. Carry them to safety if needed.
- Don't use a tourniquet.
- Avoid applying ice or cold packs.
- Don't cut the bite with a knife or razor.
- Never try to suck out the venom by mouth.
- Don't give stimulants or pain meds unless instructed by a doctor.
- Don't give the person anything to drink.
- Avoid raising the bite above heart level.
Venomous snakes can be identified by their triangular-shaped heads, though some non-venomous snakes mimic this shape. Other ways to distinguish between venomous and non-venomous species is by color pattern. Of Alabama's six venomous snake species, copperheads are particularly known for their distinctive dark brown hourglass pattern.
For more information on snake safety, visit here.
