Take the following steps if you think someone has been bitten by a poisonous snake:
Carefully lay the casualty down on the ground and place him in the recovery position.
Wash the bite with soap and water; wipe away from the wound. Don't put ice on it.
Immobilise the bitten limb with a splint, and keep it at or below heart level.
If the casualty becomes unconscious, place him in the recovery position and make sure his airway is clear.
If breath becomes laboured or fails, apply artificial respiration.
Seek medical aid or get the casualty to a hospital. Remember, you will need to give a detailed description of the snake to help identify the appropriate serum.
Only one of Britain's three native snakes are poisonous - the adder. Its bite is rarely fatal, however.
