If someone is bitten by a snake in Singapore, move away from the snake only as far as needed for safety, then call 995. Keep the person still and support the bitten limb to minimise movement. Get emergency assessment even if the bite looks small or the person feels well. SingHealth snakebite first aid · Singapore Red Cross first-aid manual · SCDF emergency medical services
Keep other people and pets away from the snake. Give the dispatcher the location, time of the bite and any changes in the person’s breathing or alertness. Avoid handling the snake or trying to catch it for identification. AVS snake encounter guidance · SCDF emergency medical services
- Move clear of the snake and call 995.
- Keep the person and bitten limb still.
- Leave the wound alone. Avoid cutting, suction, ice or a tight tourniquet.
On this page · Keep the Person Still Once They Are Safe · Give a Location the Crew Can Reach · Frequently Asked Questions
Keep the Person Still Once They Are Safe
Ask the person to sit or lie down and reassure them. Support the affected limb in a comfortable position without making them walk to meet the ambulance. Call from where you are if it is safe. On a trail or park connector, send another person to meet responders if possible. SingHealth snakebite first aid · Singapore Red Cross first-aid manual · SCDF emergency medical services
Follow SCDF instructions on dressings
Pressure immobilisation depends on the type of bite and the method used. Singapore’s clinical guidance warns against using it for viper bites. Keep the limb still and ask 995 what to do rather than improvising a tight wrap. A snakebite is different from a wound with life-threatening external bleeding. MOH poisoning guidelines · Singapore Red Cross first-aid manual
Give a Location the Crew Can Reach
Tell 995 the park, trail, nearest junction or numbered marker, and which entrance leads to you. Give the bite time and location on the body. Mention anything you noticed about the snake from a safe position. A description can help, but the call and the person’s safety come first. AVS snake encounter guidance · SCDF emergency medical services
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we wait to see if the bite swells?
Call 995 and seek immediate assessment. Signs can take time to appear. SingHealth snakebite first aid
Should we trap the snake for the hospital?
Keep away and tell responders what you saw. AVS advises against touching, chasing or cornering a snake. AVS snake encounter guidance
Can someone walk a short distance to the car?
Once clear of immediate danger, minimise movement and follow the dispatcher’s instructions about access and transport. MOH poisoning guidelines · SCDF emergency medical services
Continue With the Singapore Emergency Playbook
- Jellyfish Sting in Singapore | What to Do at the Beach and When to Call 995
- Dog or Cat Bite in Singapore | How to Clean the Wound and When to See a Doctor
- Electric Shock in Singapore | How to Make the Scene Safe and When to Call 995
- Emergency Numbers in Singapore
Guidance checked 8 November 2026.