Bitten by a Snake? Here’s the First Thing You Must Do — It Could Save Your Life

Call for Emergency Help Immediately

As soon as you’re safe, call emergency services or have someone else do it. Snakebites can escalate quickly, and professional medical care—including antivenom—is often necessary.

Even if you’re unsure whether the snake was venomous, it’s better to treat every bite seriously.

What Not to Do

There are a lot of myths about snakebites—some of them dangerous. Avoid these common mistakes:

• Do not cut the wound
• Do not try to suck out the venom
• Do not apply ice
• Do not use a tourniquet (this can cause severe tissue damage)
• Do not attempt to catch the snake

These actions can worsen injury or delay proper treatment.