Most snakes aren''t
poisonous. Some exceptions include the rattlesnake, coral
snake, water moccasin and copperhead.
Most
poisonous snakes have slit like
eyes. Their heads are triangular, with a depression, or pit, midway between the
eyes and nostrils. Other characteristics are unique to certain poisonous
snakes:
Rattlesnakes
make a rattling sound by shaking the rings at the end of their tail.Water moccasins
have a white, cottony lining in their mouth.Coral snakes
have red, yellow and black rings along the length of their body.
To reduce your risk of snakebite, avoid picking up or playing with any
snake. Most snakes usually avoid people if possible and bite only when
threatened or surprised.
If you''ve experienced snakebite:
Remain calm.Don''t try to capture the
snake.Immobilize the bitten arm or
leg and try to stay as quiet as possible.Remove jewelry, because
swelling tends to progress rapidly.Apply a loose splint to
reduce movement of the affected area, but make sure it is loose enough
that it won''t restrict blood flow.Don''t use a tourniquet or
apply ice.Don''t cut the wound or
attempt to remove the venom.Seek medical attention as
soon as possible, especially if the bitten area changes color, begins to
swell or is painful