Adder bites

The adder (kyy) is Finland’s only venomous snake, and hundreds of people are bitten every summer. A bite is rarely life-threatening, but it always needs to be assessed by a doctor. This guide explains what to do and what not to do.

You will need

• A phone
• The Poison Information Centre number 0800 147 111
• Gauze or a piece of cloth to support the limb
• A vehicle or an ambulance to get to the emergency department

Steps

1. Move away

   Calmly move the person who was bitten away from the snake. Do not try to kill or catch the snake.

2. Calm them and sit them down

3. Assess the emergency

4. Remove anything tight

5. Support the limb

6. Avoid the old mistakes

7. Go to the emergency department

8. Monitor their condition

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