Copperhead Snake Bites Person At Lake In Montgomery County

DERWOOD, MD — A person was bitten by a Copperhead Snake at a lake in Derwood, Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Spokesperson Pete Piringer announced Tuesday morning.

The bite occurred at Lake Needwood, a 75-acre reservoir located east of Rockville on Rock Creek.

Piringer didn't give immediate details on this specific incident, but provided tips on what to do if bitten.

"If snake bitten, immobilize bitten area and keep it lower than the heart. Get medical help. Do not attempt to drive yourself," Piringer tweeted. "Most of all, stay calm (to keep from pumping the poison around your system). Main thing is to get to a hospital."

The Maryland Poison Control Center says the Northern Copperhead and the Timber Rattlesnake are two venomous snakes native to Maryland.

Not every venomous snakebite results in the injection of venom, the MPC says.

The center tells residents to watch for symptoms such as pain, redness and progressive swelling. Anyone bit by a snake is advised to stay calm, wash the area with soapy water and call the MPC at 1-800-222-1222 before performing additional first aid.

>> This is a developing story. Patch will update this post as more information becomes available.

(Photo via Pete Piringer)