Grade 6 Physical And Health Education Sport Related Injuries – Snake Bites Notes
PHE
Snake Bites
Topic: Sport Related Injuries • Subject: Physical and Health Education • For age: 11 • Kenya
A snake bite is when a snake bites the skin and may pass venom into the body. Not all bites have venom, but every bite can be serious. In Kenya, some snakes found near fields or playing areas include puff adders, spitting cobras, black mambas, and boomslangs.
Signs of a snake bite
- Two small puncture marks or a single wound.
- Pain, swelling or redness around the bite.
- Nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or trouble breathing (seek help immediately).
- Bleeding or bruising easily — this can be a sign of venom.
Quick first aid (Do this)
- Stay calm. Encourage the person to sit or lie down.
- Call an adult, teacher or 999 / 112 for an ambulance right away.
- Move away from the snake so no one else gets bitten.
- Keep the bitten limb still and lower than the heart.
- Remove tight clothes, rings, or shoes in case of swelling.
- Cover the bite with a clean, loose cloth. Note the time of the bite.
- Get the person to the nearest health facility quickly — anti‑snake treatment may be needed.
Do NOT do these
- Do not cut the wound or try to suck out the venom.
- Do not apply a tight tourniquet or strong pressure bandage unless trained to do so.
- Do not give alcohol or medicines unless a health worker tells you.
- Do not waste time with traditional remedies — go to a health facility quickly.
When to call emergency help now
- If the person finds it hard to breathe.
- If swelling spreads quickly or the person faints.
- If there is severe pain, vomiting or bleeding from the mouth.
- If a child, older person, or someone with health problems is bitten.
Emergency numbers in Kenya: 999 or 112. Go to the nearest hospital; tell staff the time of the bite and a description of the snake if known.
Prevention during sports and play
- Wear closed shoes or sports boots when playing near bushes or fields.
- Check where you step, sit or put your hands (look before reaching under rocks or logs).
- Keep school fields clear of long grass and piles of rubbish or stones.
- Use a torch if you walk or play outside in the dark.
- Store bags off the ground and keep classrooms tidy.
Role of teacher or coach
- Know the school emergency plan and nearest health facility.
- Keep a stocked first-aid kit and ensure at least one adult is trained in first aid.
- Teach pupils how to reduce risk and what to do if they or a friend is bitten.
- Report the bite and get medical care quickly.
Mini quiz — tick true or false
- It is safe to try to suck the venom out of a bite. (False)
- You should keep the bitten limb still and get to a hospital. (True)
- Wearing closed shoes can help prevent snake bites during sports. (True)
Quick checklist (for pupils)
If someone is bitten: stay calm → call an adult → keep still → remove tight items → cover wound lightly → go to hospital.
Note: These are basic safety notes for learners. Always follow advice from trained health workers. In case of a snake bite get professional medical help immediately.