Summer is upon us in the PRD, and along with blistering heat and sky-high humidity comes another unwelcome guest: snakes.
From May to October, snakes tend to proliferate throughout the city, especially on muggy days or after heavy rains. From July 11-20 in 2016, for instance, emergency centers in the city reported an alarming eight cases of poisonous snakebites. Most victims were in parks when they were attacked.
Below, find out how to avoid being bitten in the first place as well as what to do if a snake strikes.
Be vigilant when exercising outside at night or in the early morning, especially after it rains
Avoid large patches of tall grass or vegetation that may conceal snakes; also, watch your hands and feet when moving around big rocks and logs
If in a risky area, wear long pants and boots
When navigating a plant-dense area, try using a stick to probe and tap the ground before you step, which may help scare snakes away
If you spot a snake, back away slowly
Immediately call 120 for emergency care
Try to remember the color and pattern of the snake (see below for examples of poisonous snakes), which may help with treatment
While waiting for help, stay as calm and still as possible
Lie or sit down so that the bite is below the level of your heart
Cover the wound with a clean, dry dressing or bandage
We shouldn’t have to say this, but – don’t try to catch the snake afterwards
Don’t attempt to cut the wound or suck out the venom
Do not use a tourniquet or otherwise cut off circulation above the bite
Don’t ice the wound, and avoid immersing it in water
Below are some varieties of poisonous snakes, along with their Chinese names, found in the Pearl River Delta.
Image via Wikimedia
Image via Wikimedia
Image via Wikimedia
Image via Wikimedia
Image via Wikimedia
This article was originally published on July 26, 2016. It was updated and republished on May 29, 2019.
[Cover image via Wikimedia]
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