AUSTIN, Texas — With the return of warm weather in Central Texas comes increased snake activity.

Austin-Travis County EMS this past weekend attended to a snakebite victim in Remiers Ranch in west Travis County. The patient is expected to be OK.

ATCEMS additionally shared information about which snakes to look out for and what to do if you or someone you are with is bitten.

ATCEMS wrote that “snakes may be in our around water, tall grass, fallen logs, outcroppings, hiding under debris or other objects, or in animal burrows.”

The agency said that most venomous snakes in Central Texas are pit vipers which include rattlesnakes, copperheads and water moccasins.

How to avoid snakebite

  • If you see a snake, freeze, and then back away slowly. If given the opportunity to escape, they usually will. Do not touch the snake.
  • Never try to pick the snake up or attempt to trap it. Never handle a venomous snake, including a dead or decapitated one.
  • Heavy footwear, snake-proof pants, leggings and boots will reduce your chances of being bitten.

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If you are bitten

  • Keep calm.
  • Seek medical attention as soon as possible. Call 911 or your local Emergency Medical Services. Antivenom is the treatment for snakebite.
  • Take a picture of the snake from a safe distance. Identifying the snake will help with treatment.
  • Apply first aid while waiting for EMS.
  • If you were bitten by a pit viper, lay or sit down with affected limb elevated.
  • If you were bitten by a coral snake, keep the affected area level with the heart.
  • Remove rings and watches before swelling begins.
  • Wash the bite with soap and water.
  • Cover the bite with clean, dry dressing.

What not to do if you are bitten

  • Don’t drive yourself to the hospital. You may become dizzy or pass out.
  • Don’t wait for symptoms; get help immediately.
  • Do not apply a tourniquet.
  • Do not cut the wound or slash it with a knife.
  • Don’t try to suck the poison out.
  • Do not apply ice to the wound or submerge it in water.
  • Don’t consume alcohol in order to reduce the pain.
  • Do not take pain relievers such as aspirin.
  • Do not apply electric shock or attempt any folk remedies.