Snake bites warning
What happens when you get too close
St John Ambulance in Victoria has warned that as the warmer weather continues, snakes are out and about and people should be aware of their safety in areas where snakes might be.
St John Ambulance spokesman, Peter Cocks, said the old adage of applying a tourniquet is not considered appropriate treatment these days, nor is the option to bleed the wound or suck the poison out.
First aid tips whilst awaiting professional assistance.
· Apply a pressure immobilisation bandage to the area. If the bite is on a leg start at the toes and move up the limb as far as possible. The bandage needs to be firm, like for a sprain, but not too tight.
· Apply a splint to the affected limb if possible.
· Keep the person as still as possible.
· Don’t clean the bitten area as medical experts may be able to take venom from the skin to identify the type of snake.
· Do not try and catch or kill the snake and threaten your own safety.
This information is not intended to replace a first aid course where these topics are discussed in more detail, as well as lifesaving CPR and many other ways to assist in a medical emergency.
St John offers a wide range of first aid training courses. More details on first aid training by St John Ambulance can be found on the website at www.stjohnvic.com.au or by calling 1300 360 455.
