Snake Rescue Manual: Guidelines on Snake Rescue, Snakebite Management, and Community Education for Snake Conservation

Human-Snake conflict (HSC) is a complex and pervasive problem that occurs wherever snakes and people share the same habitat. Lack of information, ignorance by the masses and absence of snakebite prevention measures results in around 2100 annual deaths in Gujarat while the national mortality figure is as high as 58,000. While the need to improve the quality of anti-venom serum and post bite clinical management is high priority, prevention of bites can play a vital role in bringing down the mortality rates. Snakes and people often need to be rescued from certain situations especially when the former comes near people’s houses and backyards, especially in rural areas. Since snake capture is a specialised activity and is often potentially dangerous in case of venomous snakes, it requires systematic training and experience. Proper knowledge to administer the right first aid can very well save a limb and even a life. Individuals who are interested in this issue need to be well trained in all relevant aspects. This manual is intended for experienced snake handlers, not for beginners.