Bites & stings

Snake Bite

Keep the person calm and still, keep the bitten limb still and below heart level, and call 999 — the adder is the only venomous snake native to the UK.

When to call 999. Call 999 for any snake bite where venom is possible, including any adder bite in the UK, or any bite abroad from a snake that may be venomous. Get the person to hospital even if symptoms seem mild at first, as they can develop.

Written by Meds Global Health Clinical Team · Clinically reviewed by Dr Muhammad Suffyan, MB BS, Founder & Clinical Director · Last reviewed · How we review

What to do

  1. Move the person away from the snake and keep everyone at a safe distance — do not try to catch or kill it.
  2. Keep the person calm and as still as possible to slow the spread of any venom.
  3. Keep the bitten limb still and, if possible, lower than the heart; immobilise it gently as you would a sprain.
  4. Remove rings, watches and tight clothing near the bite before swelling develops.
  5. Call 999 and get to hospital; note the time of the bite and any symptoms.
  6. If you can safely do so, take a photo of the snake from a distance to help identification, but do not risk another bite.

Avoid

What not to do

Do not try to suck out venom, cut the wound, apply a tight tourniquet, or use ice — these can cause harm. Do not give the person alcohol, and do not let them walk around unnecessarily or panic, which spreads venom faster.

Afterwards and while you wait

Keep the person calm and still while waiting for help, and monitor for spreading pain, swelling, feeling faint, sickness or breathing problems. Even an adder bite that seems mild should be assessed in hospital, as reactions can develop over hours.

Education and reference only. This is general first-aid information aligned with UK guidance, not a substitute for a hands-on first-aid course or professional emergency care. In a life-threatening emergency, call 999 straight away.

Answers

Snake Bite: frequently asked questions

Are UK snake bites dangerous?

The adder is the only venomous snake native to the UK, and while its bite is rarely fatal, it can cause significant swelling, pain and, occasionally, serious reactions. All adder bites should be assessed in hospital.

Should I suck out the venom or use a tourniquet?

No. Sucking out venom, cutting the wound, tight tourniquets and ice are all harmful and outdated. Keep the person calm and still, immobilise the limb, and get medical help.

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Sources

Where this is drawn from

  • NHS — first aid
  • St John Ambulance / British Red Cross first-aid guidance
  • UK Health Security Agency (where relevant)

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