TOP SECRET ANIMAL ATTACK FILES
Special Report filed by AAF Correspondent: Anonymous
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--- Deadly Rattlesnake Bites are Rare --- Books Relating to this Report: Rattlenakes: Portrait of a Predator Venomous Reptiles of North America Handbook of Clinical Toxicology of Animal Venoms and Poisons Great Books about ANIMAL ATTACKS: Attacked! Great Books about A Field Guide to Snakes of Florida Rattlenakes: Portrait of a Predator Venomous Reptiles of North America Handbook of Clinical Toxicology of Animal Venoms and Poisons More: Every Creeping Thing: True Tales of Faintly Repulsive Wildlife Jellies: The Story of Jellyfish --- Tell a Friend about the Animal Attack Files |
What to do and what not to do if a poisonous snake strikes. Reacting calmly: If bitten by a pit viper, such as a rattlesnake, copperhead or water moccasin: Get away from the snake in case it strikes again. Keep quiet and try not to increase your heart rate. Identify the snake species, because snakes vary in toxicity. Get to a hospital for antivenin quickly. Antivenin must be administered within hours. Gently wash the bitten area with soap and water. Every 15 minutes keep track of swelling on the skin by marking the skin and noting the time the mark was made. Do not try to suck out venom with your mouth because infections can result. A suction device can remove up to 30 percent of the venom if done within three minutes of the bite. Do not make cuts over the bite mark or constrict the flow of blood. Do not apply cold. Source: National Safety Council |