What to do after a snake bite

Immediately after being bitten by a snake you should:

• remain calm and don't panic  snake bites, particularly those that occur in the UK, usually aren't serious and are only very rarely deadly
• try to remember the shape, size and colour of the snake
• keep the part of your body that's been bitten as still as possible to prevent the venom spreading around your body
• remove jewellery and watches from the bitten limb as they could cut into your skin if the limb swells
• do not attempt to remove any clothing, but loosen clothing if possible
• seek immediate medical attention

If you or someone you're with is bitten by a snake, you should NOT:

• try to suck the venom out of the bite
• try to cut the venom out of the bite or make it bleed
• rub anything into the wound or apply ice, heat or chemicals
• leave someone who's been bitten on their own
• put anything around the bitten limb to stop the spread of venom (such as a tight pressure band, tourniquet or ligature) as it won't help, and can cause swelling or make it worse; it could also damage the limb, leading to the need for amputation
• try to catch or kill the snake

Dial 999 immediately after being bitten by a snake to ask for an ambulance, or go straight to  your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department .

You should give healthcare professionals a description of the snake to help identify it.

You may be admitted to hospital so the bite can be assessed and your condition closely monitored.