Unless you live in a region of the United States that’s known for venomous snakes, you probably don’t spend a lot of time thinking about snake bites.

But knowing how to prevent them and what to do if bitten are important because common misconceptions about snakes can make the bite worse.

It’s crucial to be aware of these things even if you live in a region like Cincinnati, where venomous snake bites are uncommon, because you might vacation in an area where they reside. I recommend taking a few minutes to review the following information so that you’ll be better prepared if you encounter one at home or on vacation:   

Background on Snakes in the United States

First, let’s review the venomous snakes found in the U.S. These include rattlesnakes, copperheads, cottonmouths or water moccasins, and coral snakes. Each of these snakes have a particular region of the United States in which they reside. They do not live in all areas throughout our country.

Around 7,000–8,000 people per year are bitten by venomous snakes in the U.S. Poison centers receive thousands of calls about snake bites each year, typically between May and September. At our Cincinnati Drug and Poison Information Center we received 48 calls over the last five years.

Venomous snake bites are unusual in the Cincinnati area but people should be vigilant when outdoors and take the proper precautions.

Steps to prevent snake bites

1. Wear the right gear

To prevent a snake from biting your feet or legs, wear loose, long pants and high, thick leather or rubber boots when walking through snake-prone areas. If you’re doing yard work or collecting sticks for a fire, wear leather gloves to prevent them from biting your hands.

2. Avoid scaring a snake

Snake bites typically happen when someone accidentally steps on them or when they are frightened. To avoid this, it’s best to take extra precaution when they’re more active – at night and in warm weather. Also stay away from areas where they could be hiding, like tall grass, piles of leaves, rocks, and brush.  If you need to walk through tall grass or weeds, use a stick to poke at the ground in front of you to scare them away.  If you’re out at night, shine a flashlight on the path in front of you.

3. Use the buddy system

If you’re headed out in an area known for venomous snakes, make sure to take someone with you.  That way, if you are bitten by a snake or have another emergency, someone else will be there to help you. Remember to charge your phone and stay where you can still get a signal.   

4. Avoid touching or handling a snake

It sounds like an obvious tip, but never pick up a snake, even if you think it is dead or nonvenomous. Recently killed snakes are still able to bite by reflex — even detached snake heads!

What to Do If Bitten By A Snake