Australia’s warmer months bring an increase in snake activity, with the summer heat driving many species into more populated areas in search of food and water. Whether you’re out bushwalking, enjoying the outdoors, or working around the garden, it’s essential to know about snake bites in Australia and what to do.
How to Identify a Snake Bite (And What To Do!)
Australia is home to several venomous snake species, including the Eastern Brown Snake, Taipan, and Tiger Snake, among others. A snake bite can sometimes be hard to spot immediately, but common symptoms include pain, swelling, and sometimes, a puncture wound. These can worsen quickly, so immediate action is crucial.
Steps to Take If You’re Bitten
- Stay Calm – The more relaxed you remain, the slower your heart rate will be, reducing the spread of venom through your body.
- Call for Help – Dial 000 to request immediate medical assistance. Make sure to inform them that it’s a suspected snake bite.
- Apply Pressure – Wrap a bandage firmly around the bite area to slow the spread of venom. The bandage should be tight enough to apply pressure but not restrict circulation. Wrap it up the limb towards the torso.
- Keep Still – Try to stay as still as possible to avoid spreading the venom. Keep the affected limb at or slightly below heart level.
- Do Not: Try to suck out the venom, apply ice, clean or cut the wound. These actions can do more harm than good.
Remember that the snake may not have injected its venom, but you have to assume it has.
The venom goes into your muscle and your lymphatic system,
therefore you if don’t move, the venom can’t spread
If You Find Someone Who’s Been Bitten
- Call 000 Immediately – Getting professional help is the first priority. Be clear about the symptoms, location, and severity of the bite.
- Stay Calm and Reassure the Person – Keep the person as calm as possible and have them lie down. Avoid any unnecessary movement.
- Apply a Pressure Bandage – Follow the same method for applying the bandage to slow the venom’s movement.
- Monitor Their Condition – If the person starts showing signs of severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, rapid pulse, or weakness, try to keep them calm and monitor their vitals until help arrives.
Prevention Is Key
While Australia is home to many snake species, the chances of a serious encounter can be minimised with precautions:
- Stick to well-trodden paths when walking in the bush.
- Wear sturdy shoes and long pants when walking through tall grass.
- Be cautious around rocks, logs, and undergrowth where snakes may hide.
- Keep your property clear of snake hideouts by maintaining gardens and removing debris.
Understanding first aid for snake bites is essential for anyone spending time outdoors in Australia. Be sure to check your first aid kit for any necessary supplies, and consider taking a first aid course to ensure you’re prepared if you ever face an emergency. If you’d like to learn more about handling snake bites and other first aid scenarios, check out our comprehensive first aid training courses by clicking this link.
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