You have a copperhead snake bite & no cell service in GA. Here’s how to survive
Snake season is upon us, so if you come across a copperhead this time of year, you probably aren’t alone. However, if you get bitten by one, that’s a different story. And it is even more urgent if you are unable to get cell service right away to call for help.
So, will you survive on your own until help arrives? Here’s what to do:
Identify the snake
According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, “Copperheads are well known for their camouflage colors of brown tones. They are thick snakes with keeled scales. The background color is some shade of tan or brown, with darker brown hourglass or ‘Hershey’s Kiss’ shapes overlaid.”
All in all, note the color of the snake and markings. Also, note the time that the bite happened.
Remove constrictive items
“Stay still and calm,” Mayo Clinic experts said. “Remove any jewelry, watches or tight clothing before swelling starts.”
Clean it
If you can, wash the bite with soap and water and get a clean, dry dressing on the area.
Don’t do these things
The Georgia Poison Center advises against the following:
DO NOT pick up the snake or try to trap it
DO NOT apply a tourniquet or attempt to restrict blood flow to the affected area
DO NOT cut the wound
DO NOT attempt to suck out the venom
DO NOT apply heat, cold, electricity or any substance to the bite
DO NOT drink alcohol or caffeinated beverages
DO NOT take any drugs or medicines
Check your phone again
If you have an iPhone 14 or later, you may be able to get help using the emergency SOS setting. Here’s how it works:
First, try calling the local emergency number to reach emergency services. Even if your normal cellular carrier network isn’t available, you might be able to make the call.
If your call won’t connect, you can text emergency services via satellite. Certain local emergency numbers require iOS 16.4 or later to connect to emergency services via satellite.
- Tap Emergency Text via Satellite.
- If you need help but aren’t in an emergency, you can choose to contact a roadside assistance provider.
- You can also go to Messages to text the local emergency number, then tap Emergency Services.
Tap Report Emergency.
Using simple taps, answer the emergency questions to best describe your situation.
Get to a hospital
“Many emergency rooms have antivenom drugs, which may help you,” according to the Mayo Clinic.
Have more questions? Let me know at cmadden@mcclatchy.com.
