Chase/kill the snake
50% of bites happen during attempted capture—stay safe!
💀 Reality: Venom spreads through lymphatic system—not blood. Pressure immobilization is key.
✅ What to Do Immediately (The Pressure Immobilization Technique)
Step 1: Call for Help
Australia: Dial 000
USA: Call 911
Global: Know local emergency number before going outdoors
⏱️ Time is critical: Antivenom must be given in hospital—do not delay transport.
Step 2: Keep the Victim Still
Lie down—minimize movement (venom spreads faster with muscle activity)
Immobilize the bitten limb with splint/stick + bandage
Step 3: Apply Pressure Immobilization Bandage (PIB)
(For neurotoxic snakes like Australian brown/tiger snakes):
Step 3: Apply Pressure Immobilization Bandage (PIB)
(For neurotoxic snakes like Australian brown/tiger snakes)
Wrap firmly over bite site with elastic bandage (like sprain compression)
Bandage entire limb from fingers/toes upward (5–10 cm wide bandage)
Splint the limb to prevent movement
Mark bite site on bandage with pen
📏 Pressure check: Bandage should be as tight as a sprain wrap—not cutting off circulation (check capillary refill: press fingernail—it should turn pink in <2 seconds).
Step 4: Monitor & Transport
Do NOT wash the bite site (venom traces help identify snake)
Note symptoms: Collapse, vomiting, paralysis, bleeding
Carry victim to vehicle—no walking!
🐍 When PIB Isn’t Recommended
Non-neurotoxic snakes (e.g., North American rattlesnakes):
→ Keep limb at heart level
→ Remove constrictive items (rings, watches)
→ Get to hospital immediately
🌍 Know your region:
Australia: Use PIB for all bites (most snakes are neurotoxic)
USA/Europe: Focus on rapid transport; PIB not routinely recommended
🩹 First Aid Kit Must-Haves for High-Risk Areas
Elastic bandages (10–15 cm wide)
Splints (SAM splint or rigid cardboard)
Pen (to mark bite site/time)
Emergency contact list (with GPS coordinates of work sites)
🛡️ Prevention: Reduce Risk on Farms/Yards
Strategy
Why It Works
Snake Bite First Aid — What to Do Immediately (And What Never to Do)
