What to do if bitten by a snake?

Ukraine is a country with incredible nature, picturesque forests, mountains, and rivers. However, during active outdoor recreation, it is important to remember possible dangers, including snake bites.

Although there are not many venomous snakes in Ukraine, encounters with them are quite possible in the Carpathians, Polissya region, as well as in the southern steppes. The risk of snake bites is especially high during the warm season — in spring and summer, when reptiles become active after winter hibernation.

Snakes generally avoid humans and bite only when threatened or accidentally touched. Most snake bites occur during mountain hikes, mushroom picking, forest walks, or outdoor work. Therefore, tourists, hunters, mushroom pickers, and gardeners should follow safety rules: wear closed shoes, watch your step carefully, and avoid touching grass or stones unnecessarily.

What to do if bitten by a snake in Ukraine? Step-by-step instructions on first aid and when to seek medical help.

Stay calm

First of all, do not panic if bitten by a snake. Stress and excessive movement only help the venom spread faster through the body. To slow the spread of venom, sit or lie down and try not to move the affected limb. If possible, immobilize the bitten arm or leg using improvised means — such as a splint or a rope.

It is important to keep the bitten area at or below heart level to reduce blood flow and slow down the venom’s effect. Also, control your breathing — take deep, slow breaths to reduce stress and prevent hyperventilation.

If you are not alone, ask your companions for help to provide first aid and call emergency services. Following these simple rules after a snake bite can save a life and prevent complications.

Quick medical help is the key to survival

Immediately call an ambulance (103). Medical professionals will arrive to provide qualified assistance and administer antivenom — the only effective remedy that neutralizes venom and reduces the risk of complications. Time is the most critical factor: the sooner the antivenom is administered, the less damage the venom will cause to the body. Remember that self-treatment or delaying calling for medical help can lead to serious complications and even threaten your life.

It is also important to inform doctors about all symptoms you notice: pain, swelling, skin color changes, breathing difficulties, or loss of consciousness. This will help assess the severity of the bite and select the optimal treatment.

What NOT to do

Avoid dangerous and outdated first aid methods for snake bites: do not cut the wound, do not try to suck out the venom, do not apply a tourniquet or ice. These actions may worsen the victim’s condition — causing impaired blood circulation, infection, or even tissue necrosis. Applying a tourniquet is especially dangerous as it blocks blood flow and may lead to tissue death. Cutting the skin increases the risk of infection, and cold reduces blood flow, which promotes faster spreading of snake venom in the body. The best approach after a snake bite is to stay calm, limit movement of the bitten limb, and seek medical help as soon as possible. Professional treatment with antivenom is the most effective way to fight poisoning.

First aid

Remove all jewelry from the bitten limb, as swelling may rapidly increase and obstruct blood flow. If antiseptic is available, carefully treat the skin around the wound, but not the bite site itself, to avoid spreading the venom further. Provide the victim with maximum rest, limit limb movement, and give warm fluids — this helps maintain water-salt balance and overall body tone.

Also remember, a snake bite is not only a physical threat but also a stressful situation, so moral support is very important. Try to calm the victim, keep them warm and comfortable until medical help arrives.

Remember: knowledge is the best protection while traveling! Before your trip, familiarize yourself with safety rules in nature, learn how to provide first aid for snake bites, and always carry a first aid kit with necessary supplies. Take care of yourself and your loved ones, respect nature, and stay safe during active recreation. We wish you safe and bright adventures on Ukrainian soil!