Oklahoma Snakes Can Still Bite You Even If They’re Dead

Spring in Oklahoma generally is one of the best times of year for outdoor activities. When the weather's just right, there's truy nothing better than being outside and enjoying the sunnier days and greener grass. But we aren't the only ones who come out when the temperatures start to rise. And if you aren't careful, you could run into some of the more dangerous critters in Oklahoma.

Snakebites become a common issue for Oklahomans starting in spring.

It's no secret that snakes are a common problem in Oklahoma. In 2024, number of snake bites were reported during the springtime. Many of the bites came from the more commonly spotted snakes like rattlesnakes, cottonmouths and water moccasins. But over a hundred of them came from unidentified snakes.

Oklahoma notoriously struggles with a snakebite problem as a whole, ranking 4th in the nation for the most snake bites in 2024. Most of the time, snake bites happen when people aren't carefully watching the areas where they walk or work with their hands. That also explains why, when most people are bitten, they walk away with a bite to the hands, ankles or feet most commonly.

The best ways to prevent yourself from being bitten:

One of the best ways to prevent yourself from being bitten is simply to look at an area before reaching or walking. Out in the wild, snakes tend to enjoy sun bathing near logs, under piles of leaves and under rocks. When you're doing yard work or cleaning out areas around your home, pay attention to areas that you haven't been working around very often.

It's also important to wear clothing that can prevent your skin from being exposed to where snakes can bite you. Long pants, boots, long sleeves and even gloves can be essential to preventing bites.

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If you suspect there might be a snake in an area where you need to be, try disturbing the ground from a distance with a long pole or stick, or tossing an object on the area.

Although snake bites can happen anywhere, parts of Oklahoma see more than others.

The most snake bite reports come from the Eastern and Central parts of the state, with most being linked to copperhead snakes. In many cases, snake bites have happened in the areas of the state with large populations of snakes, including Collinsville Lake in Collinsville, Oklahoma.

In any case that you or someone else is bitten, it's important to keep calm and stay seated. According to the Oklahoma Poison Center, bite victims should immediately:

• Sit down and stay calm.
• Wash the wound with warm soapy water.
• Remove jewelry or tight clothing.
• Keep the bitten area still and rise to heart level.
• Call the Oklahoma Center for Poison & Drug Information.
• If a snakebite victim is having chest pain, difficulty breathing, face swelling or has lost consciousness call 911 immediately.

Do not try to remove the venom by sucking it with your mouth or suction device. Also avoid using ice on the area. Lastly, don't use drugs or alcohol while waiting for medical attention. For more information, click here.