During a normal summer evening, 6-year-old Adeline was bitten by a venomous copperhead snake – and her father’s quick actions saved her life

On what began as a typical summer evening, a frightening medical emergency unfolded when 6-year-old Adeline was bitten by a venomous copperhead snake.

On June 21, 2025, Cory Paul and his family returned to their Airbnb in Millfield, Ohio, after a fun-filled day at a music festival. As the sun set, Adeline went outside to catch fireflies — a simple moment that quickly turned urgent.

Then Cory heard the words no parent ever wants to hear.

“Dad, a snake bited me!”

He rushed to her side. Unsure what kind of snake had bitten her but knowing that time was critical, Cory needed reliable guidance from a trusted tool already in his phone: The American Red Cross First Aid App.

He quickly entered Adeline’s symptoms and details about the bite. The app immediately provided clear, step-by-step guidance — including a critical instruction: call 911 right away.

“The app gave us information right away and helped us understand how serious the situation was,” Cory said.

With a 911 dispatcher on the line, Cory followed instructions while staying by Adeline’s side, keeping her calm as help arrived.

Snakebites are more common during summer months

Snakebites require fast, informed decisions, especially when venomous species like copperheads are involved. Their bites can cause severe pain, swelling and tissue damage, making immediate medical attention critical.

The Red Cross First Aid App is designed to deliver instant access to lifesaving first aid information for a wide range of everyday emergencies — from burns and allergic reactions to severe weather and animal/insect/reptile bites. Available for free, the app provides step-by-step instructions, interactive guidance and quick links to emergency services, helping users stay calm and take the right actions when seconds matter most.

The updated American Red Cross First Aid App provides first aid guidance informed by the latest science, along with features that can help users locate the nearest hospital if someone is injured or becomes ill.

 One of the most useful updates for outdoor emergencies is the addition of audible, hands-free emergency steps. This feature allows users to listen to calm, step-by-step guidance while keeping both hands free — whether stopping a bleed, performing CPR until help arrives or caring for a snakebite.

In Adeline’s case, having critical information readily available made all the difference. Instead of second-guessing what to do, Cory was able to focus on keeping his daughter still and calm — essential steps to help slow the spread of venom — while waiting for emergency responders.

Thanks to Cory’s quick thinking and the immediate support provided by the Red Cross First Aid App, Adeline received prompt medical care. She was treated at a nearby hospital and is now recovering well.

Be prepared this summer

For families spending time outdoors — whether in their own backyard or traveling — preparedness can be lifesaving. Downloading tools like the Red Cross First Aid App, knowing the risks in your environment, and understanding basic first aid steps can empower anyone to respond confidently in an emergency. Download the American Red Cross First Aid App searching for ‘American Red Cross’ in your app store or at redcross.org/apps — because when the unexpected happens, having trusted information at your fingertips can help turn a frightening moment into a story of survival.