First-aid treatment for a snake bite
Since it is not always possible to tell whether the snake is poisonous, precautions should be taken in all cases of snakebite. The following procedures should be carried out: A tourniquet should be placed just above the site of the bite. This should be only tight enough to stop venous flow and must not cut off the pulse. Anything, such as handkerchief, tie, or belt can be used as a tourniquet. The tourniquet must be released every twenty minutes for a ten-minute interval. A crossed incision should be made over the site of the bite, and the bite should be sucked out. The patient should be put at absolute rest and should undergo as little physical exertion as possible. The patient transported to the nearest hospital and, if possible, ascertain the type of snake that caused the bite.

Are the bites of poisonous snakes always fatal?
On the contrary, the majority of adults recover from snakebites. This is especially true is they can be admitted to a hospital promptly for the administration of the appropriate antivenin. The danger is greater in children, as the snake poison is apt to be more overwhelming.

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.

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