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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

‘Cut And Suck’ Not Advised For Snake Bite

Q. I was wondering if you could provide any input on snakebite kits. I’ve heard that they are useless and in fact can cause more damage than good.

“The suction device can’t possibly draw out venom from the body, not to mention that the venom within seconds will be on its way throughout the bloodstream.”

“In addition, using that little razor- blade on yourself will just cause more damage.”

I feel otherwise though. First, the bite hole will be large enough for the suction device to possibly work. Second, the venom is injected intramuscularly, therefore staying pretty much localized for a while. Third, companies wouldn’t make so many of these products if they were actually hurting people (lawsuit). Besides, you have to try and get some of the poison out or else you could have some serious problems, depending on the species of snake.

Michael T. Narish

Gear Guy replies: Here’s the recommended procedure: If you have Betadine or a similar disinfectant solution handy, clean the bite area with it and cover the bite marks with a Betadine-soaked pad. Compress the bite site with a bandage (triangular dressing or elastic bandage) to restrict blood flow into and out of the wound area, and apply tourniquet pressure above and below the bite. Wrap the bandages about as tightly as you would for a sprain. Splint the leg or arm (assuming that’s where the bite is) to prevent motion, keep the victim as still and quiet as possible, and get the subject to a hospital pronto.

This treatment isn’t perfect. Most North American poisonous snakes, including rattlesnakes and water moccasins, are pit vipers. Their venom is, in effect, meat tenderizer. As such it can cause considerable damage to muscle and tissue. So simply containing it may lead to considerable pain and tissue damage in the bite area. Better that, though, than risking having the venom spread.

The “cut and suck” treatment is generally discouraged nowadays. It’s not effective and will harm both the victim and aid-giver. A Sawyer Extractor, designed to suck venom out of snake or insect bite, may be helpful. They’re available at most sporting-goods stores. Better, though, to focus on preventing the venom from spreading and seeking treatment.

Better still to avoid the problem entirely. Wear heavy pants and high, leather boots in snake-prone areas. Don’t reach up on rocky ledges or other areas where snakes may be sunning. Thump the ground when walking in snakey areas; they feel the vibration from your feet and will generally flee. Keep in mind that snakebites are rarely fatal in North America, and that snakes can rarely strike effectively at a distance greater than one-third their body length (less than two feet for a BIG snake). Be careful and be prepared, and you shouldn’t have a problem.

Q. I am curious about the Trangia’s performance. I’ve heard it takes longer to boil water. Does this mean you have to carry twice as much fuel for your trip? I like the simplicity of the stove but am worried it won’t perform.

Andrew Leaf

Gear Guy replies: You’ve pretty much summed things up, Andrew. Trangia stoves, which run on alcohol, put out less heat than white gas or canned propane. So it takes longer to boil things, although my understanding is that they don’t burn that much more fuel than a white gas or similar stove.

But they work great. They’re simple, reliable, simmer well and burn cleanly.

Alcohol stoves are hugely popular in Europe, which is were Trangia stoves are made. Check out the Mini-Trangia ($25) for something a little different in a stove.

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