If you are bitten by a snake, stay calm and take the following steps to minimize the risk of poisoning and complications:
1. Stay Calm and Limit Movement
- Try to remain as calm as possible—panicking can raise your heart rate and spread the venom more quickly.
- Keep the affected area still and position it lower than your heart.
2. Call Emergency Services Immediately
- Dial 911 (or your local emergency number) for medical assistance right away.
- If someone is with you, ask them to call for help and assist you in getting to a hospital.
3. Perform Proper First Aid
- Gently clean the wound with soap and water.
- Apply a loose bandage if you suspect the bite is from a venomous snake (but avoid wrapping it too tightly).
- Remain as still as possible, especially if the bite is on a limb.
Avoid These Common Mistakes:
- Do NOT use a tourniquet—it can cause severe tissue damage.
- Do NOT cut the wound or try to suck out the venom—this increases the risk of infection.
- Do NOT drink alcohol or caffeine—they can raise your heart rate.
- Do NOT apply ice or tobacco—these can worsen the injury.
4. Identify the Snake If Possible
- If it’s safe, try to remember the snake’s color, size, and markings, or take a photo.
- This information can help doctors determine the appropriate treatment.
Important: Even if you don’t feel immediate symptoms, seek medical attention. Some venomous bites cause delayed but life-threatening reactions.
Replanting Snake-Repellent Plants to Protect Your Family
Certain plants can help deter snakes from entering your yard. Consider growing these natural repellents:
1. Seven-Leaf Flower (Aesculus)
- This plant is well-known for its ability to ward off venomous snakes.
- A common folk saying goes: “Keep the seven-leaf flower in your house, and venomous snakes won’t dare enter.”
- Besides repelling snakes, it has medicinal properties for treating snake bites.
2. Marigold
- These bright orange and yellow flowers don’t just add beauty to your garden—they also help repel snakes and other pests.
- Their strong, pungent smell, caused by a compound called sulfenyl, is highly unpleasant to snakes.
3. Kudzu Vine
- Known for its snake-repelling properties, this fast-growing vine can be planted around your home for extra protection.
4. Lemongrass
- A common household plant with a strong citrus scent that naturally repels snakes.
- Lemongrass is easy to grow and can be planted in gardens, pots, or terraces.
- It also has additional health benefits, such as being used for steaming to relieve colds and fevers.
5. Snake Plant (Viper’s Bowstring, Mother-in-Law’s Tongue)
- A hardy, low-maintenance succulent that thrives in hot and dry conditions.
- It not only acts as a natural snake deterrent but also purifies the air and enhances indoor spaces.
By planting these snake-repellent plants, you can help keep your home and garden safer while adding beauty to your surroundings.