A rattlesnake bite might be one of the most terrifying things that can happen while hiking, but panicking will only make things worse. Rattlesnakes aren’t aggressive creatures – they bite as a last resort. If you’re unlucky enough to be on the receiving end of a strike, your best chance at survival is to stay calm and follow the right steps.
The good news? Most rattlesnake bites are not fatal. With proper first aid and quick medical attention, the vast majority of people survive. The key is knowing what to do and avoiding common mistakes that can make things worse.
Here are 10 steps to follow if you get bitten by a rattlesnake.
1. Move Away from the Snake
First things first – get away from the snake. Some rattlesnakes strike more than once, and if you’re still standing too close, you could be at risk for a second bite. Carefully back away and find a safe spot before doing anything else.
Also, be aware of your surroundings. Snakes sometimes travel in pairs or near a nest, so take a good look before stepping anywhere new.
2. Keep the Wound Below Your Heart
One of the most important things to remember is keeping the bite below your heart. Raising the affected limb can cause venom to spread more quickly through your bloodstream. Instead, if you’re bitten on the leg, sit down and keep your leg low. If it’s your hand or arm, keep it relaxed at your side rather than raising it up.
3. Do Not Run—Walk Slowly to Safety
Your instinct might tell you to sprint toward help, but running increases your heart rate, which spreads the venom faster. Instead, walk calmly toward the nearest medical facility, a trailhead, or anywhere you can get assistance.
If you have cell service, call for help and let someone know your exact location. A GPS device or emergency beacon can also be a lifesaver in remote areas.
4. Remove Tight Clothing and Jewelry
Rattlesnake bites cause significant swelling, sometimes within minutes. If you’re wearing rings, bracelets, or anything tight around the bitten limb, remove them immediately. Swelling can turn a snug ring into a dangerous tourniquet, cutting off circulation and causing even more serious damage.
5. Let the Wound Bleed Slightly
It may sound counterintuitive, but letting the bite wound bleed a little bit can actually be beneficial. Some of the venom may exit the wound naturally, which could slow down the spread in your body. However, do not attempt to squeeze, cut, or suck the venom out – these outdated methods have been proven ineffective and even harmful.
6. Keep the Wound Clean—But Don’t Wash It
You might feel the urge to wash off the wound, especially if you’re near a stream or have bottled water. But don’t do it. Medical professionals can often test the venom residue on your skin to identify the exact type of snake that bit you. That information is crucial for getting the right antivenom.
Instead of washing, lightly cover the wound with a clean bandana or gauze to keep dirt out and prevent infection.
7. Identify the Snake (If You Can Do So Safely)
Knowing what kind of snake bit you can be extremely helpful for medical treatment. If you got a good look at it, try to remember its size, color, and head shape. However, do not risk getting closer to the snake just to identify it. Doctors can still treat you effectively without knowing the exact species.
8. Do Not Apply Ice or a Tourniquet
It might seem logical to ice the bite or tie a tourniquet above it to stop the venom from spreading – but this can make things much worse. Ice closes the wound and traps venom inside, increasing tissue damage.
Tourniquets can completely cut off circulation, potentially leading to amputation. The best course of action is to let the venom spread slowly through your system while you get medical help.
9. Stay As Still As Possible While Waiting for Help
If medical help is on the way, sit or lie down and stay still. Moving too much increases your heart rate, which pumps the venom faster through your bloodstream. If you’re deep in the wilderness, use a whistle or signal for help rather than attempting to walk too far.
This is also a great time to control your breathing. Taking slow, deep breaths can keep you calm and prevent unnecessary panic, which helps keep your heart rate low.
10. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
No matter how “mild” the bite seems, get to a hospital as soon as possible. Even “dry bites” – where no venom is injected – can cause serious infections or other complications.
Hospitals have antivenom treatments that can neutralize the effects of the venom, reducing damage and improving recovery time. Even if you think you can “tough it out,” don’t take the risk – get medical attention as quickly as possible.
Be Prepared and Stay Aware
A rattlesnake bite is not an automatic death sentence, but what you do next can make all the difference. By staying calm, following these 10 survival steps, and getting to a hospital as quickly as possible, you significantly increase your chances of a full recovery.
If you hike in rattlesnake country, preparation is key. Carry a whistle, know your location, and always let someone know where you’re going. And most importantly – watch where you step!
By staying aware and respecting wildlife, you can reduce your risk of a snake bite while enjoying the great outdoors. Stay safe out there!
Raised in a small Arizona town, Kevin grew up surrounded by rugged desert landscapes and a family of hunters. His background in competitive shooting and firearms training has made him an authority on self-defense and gun safety. A certified firearms instructor, Kevin teaches others how to properly handle and maintain their weapons, whether for hunting, home defense, or survival situations. His writing focuses on responsible gun ownership, marksmanship, and the role of firearms in personal preparedness.