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Snake Bites

 

Snakes are usually shy creatures that avoid human contact. Unfortunately, wildland firefighters are at risk of having contact due to their work environment. It should be noted that most snakes in the United States do not have venom. However, bites from non-venomous snakes can still cause significant infections and injury. Thus, it is best to avoid all snakes and bites when possible.

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Pacific Rattlesnake
Pacific Rattlesnake

99% of envenomation from venomous snakes in North America are from the pit viper or Crotalidae family. This family includes copperheads, cotton mouth, and all varieties of rattlesnakes. The Crotalidae snake toxin is a complex mixture of proteases that essentially causes tissue destruction. Bites from any of these snakes are treated the same way and share the same antivenom.

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Coral Snake
Coral Snake

The other venomous snake in North America is from the Elapid family, the coral snake. The coral snake is only found in small pockets throughout NM, AZ, TX, and southeast states. The coral snake toxin affects the central nervous system and requires a different antivenom.

Approximately ½ of all venomous snake bites are “dry”- meaning the snake does not secrete any venom. When venom is injected, the amount varies considerably based on the area of contact, last feeding, and other variables. However, any time a firefighter is bitten by a snake, it should be assumed that it was a venomous snake, that a significant amount of venom was secreted, and they should be evacuated. Once at a hospital it can be determined what course of action is needed. Delaying treatment to determine the type of snake or if symptoms will develop may cause significant harm. 
 

If bitten by a snake:

  • Assume it is venomous.
  • Do not try and catch or kill the snake.  This often results in secondary bites.
  • Clean the area with mild soap and water if possible.
  • Keep the area below the level of the heart.
  • DO NOT tightly wrap the area or apply constrictive dressings.
  • Get transported to the nearest emergency department in a timely fashion.

In the emergency department the patient will be evaluated, and it will be determined if antivenom is necessary. Other treatments may include tetanus vaccination, antibiotics, and local wound care. 

Discussion Questions:

  • What are the types of dangerous snakes that are found in the area you are working now?
  • When your crew identifies a snake, what actions do you take to advise others and avoid contact?

 

Category
Firefighter Health & First Aid


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Updated NWCG Guide for Wildland Fire Modules, PMS 431

Date: May 14, 2025
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The updated NWCG Guide for Wildland Fire Modules, PMS 431 serves as a supplemental resource for wildland fire module operations, providing information frequently used in the field.

PMS 431 defines the organizational structure, staffing, and qualifications for Type 1 and Type 2 Wildland Fire Modules, outlining their roles in wildland fire suppression, prescribed fire, and resource management. The NWCG Guide for Wildland Fire Modules, PMS 431, should be used in conjunction with the NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Module Operations, PMS 430.

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NWCG Guide for Wildland Fire Modules, PMS 431

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The NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Resource Typing, PMS 200 has been updated to include newly developed Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) typing standards. These standards organize OHV information into logical categories and outline key safety requirements for occupants.

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NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Resource Typing, PMS 200

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The S-204, Interpersonal and Critical Thinking Skills for Safety Officers self-directed online course is now available! Developed through the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort, this training supports individuals working towards Safety Officer, Field (SOFF) incident qualifications.

S-204, Interpersonal and Critical Thinking Skills for Safety Officers focuses on facilitating hazard mitigation conversations and building trust to influence safety-related decisions. Individuals can self-enroll through the Wildland Fire Learning Portal (WFLP).

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