There are more than 2,500 different kinds of snakes. Only about 200 of them are poisonous. All snake-bites are not fatal. Only a very small quantity of the venom might have been injected. Most people die not because of the venom, but from fear. However all snake bite cases are to be treated as if bitten by poisonous ones.
Aim for the first aid:
- To reassure the person.
- To stop spreading of the venom.
- To obtain medical aid.
- Install confidence in the victim. If he is calm, it would take time for the position spread.
- Take him to the hospital as soon as possible.
- If medical help gets delayed, or if the hospital is far away, ensure thay the poison does not spread all over his body.
- Lay him straight on the ground. Wash the bite with soap and water. Cover the wound with a clean cloth.
- Do not place ice cubes on the wound.
- Tie a firm knot about 2-4 inches above the bite. The knot should not be tight.
- Try not to move or snake the bitten part.
- Do not tear the wound with a knife, or attempt to suck the poison out with your mouth.
- Do not tie the knot in the joints – especially that of the neck, head, hand or leg.
- If required, give him a painkiller or a paracetamol or aspirin.
- Apart from this, do not medicate him yourself and do not give alcohol.
- If you could identify the kind of snake that bit the victim, the detail would help the medical experts to prepare the specific anti-serum.
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