These are the same steps our staff use when they help someone. "They" means the person who needs help: you, or someone you are helping. Go in order, and call ahead when you can.
1Rattlesnake bite
Call 911. Get away from the snake. Don't try to catch or kill it.
Keep them calm and still. Keep the bitten arm or leg still and about at heart level.
Take off rings, watches and tight clothes before it swells.
Don't cut the bite, suck it, put ice on it, or use a tourniquet.
911 (Grant County Regional Dispatch)
Emergency: police, fire, ambulance
911
Silver City · 24/7
New Mexico Poison and Drug Information Center (UNM)
Poison control
800-222-1222
· 24/7
2Dog, cat or wild animal bite
Wash the bite with soap and running water for at least 5 minutes.
Press with a clean cloth if it's bleeding, then cover it.
See a doctor today for any bite that breaks the skin, especially on the face, hands or feet, or from a wild animal.
Bats, skunks, foxes and coyotes can carry rabies. If a bat touched anyone, or was in a room where someone was sleeping, see a doctor today, even with no bite mark.
Report the bite so the animal can be checked for rabies.
Town of Silver City - Code Enforcement / Animal Control
Code enforcement and animal control (report)
575-388-8840
Silver City · 24/7
Grant County Regional Dispatch Authority
Non-emergency dispatch (police, sheriff, fire)
575-388-8840
Silver City · 24/7
3Scorpion, black widow or other spider
Wash the spot with soap and water. Put a cold pack on it.
Call Poison Control for advice. It's free and open all day and night.
New Mexico Poison and Drug Information Center (UNM)
Poison control
800-222-1222
· 24/7
Call 911 for trouble breathing, swallowing or speaking, strong muscle cramps, twitching, or if a young child or older adult was stung by a scorpion.
4Watch for infection
Redness spreading out, warmth, pus, red streaks or fever means see a doctor right away.
Hidalgo Medical Services
Call4Health: After-hours nurse advice line
855-742-3400
· After hours
This guide is general information only, not medical, legal or other professional advice. Places and rules change, so please call before you go. In an emergency, call 911; in a mental health crisis, call or text 988. Disclaimer
Know a better way? Is something out of date?
If a number or place here is wrong, you know a better resource, or you know a better way to help, tell us. We automatically check reliable sources and update supported routine details. Unclear changes and safety guidance go to our staff for review.
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Questions, or want someone to walk through this with you? The Silver City Gospel Mission, 111 S. Texas St., Silver City,
575-388-5071, weekdays 9:00am-1:45pm. Everyone is welcome.