A snake bite can turn an ordinary moment into an emergency within seconds, but panic can make the situation worse. The safest assumption is that an unidentified snake could be venomous, because neither the shape of its head nor the appearance of the bite marks can reliably tell an untrained person whether venom was injected.

The first step is to move safely away from the snake and seek emergency medical care immediately. Do not waste time trying to catch or kill it. If it can be done from a safe distance, remembering its appearance or taking a photograph may help medical professionals identify it.

Next, keep the person as calm and still as possible and limit movement of the bitten limb. Remove rings, watches, bracelets, or tight clothing before swelling develops. The World Health Organization recommends immobilizing the person and arranging transportation to an appropriate medical facility as quickly as possible.

Some of the most famous snake-bite “remedies” can actually cause additional harm. Never cut the wound, suck out the venom, apply ice, or use a tight tourniquet. Pressure-immobilization techniques are appropriate only for certain types of snake envenomation and shouldn’t automatically be used for every bite.

Most importantly, don’t judge the danger by fang marks, pain, or how normal someone initially feels. Serious symptoms can develop after the bite, and antivenom may be required when envenomation occurs. The essential response is simple: get away from the snake, stay still, remove constricting items, immobilize the affected area, and get professional medical treatment without delay.