The warmer weather means snakes are out and about in the Geelong region. Park Street General Practice Geelong gives some advice on snake bites.
If you see a snake, the best thing to do is keep calm and try to move yourself, anyone with you and your pets away from the snake.
What to do if you are bitten by a snake
Always seek immediate medical help and tel: triple zero (000) for an ambulance in an emergency.
If the person collapses or stops breathing, you may need to apply CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) until medical help arrives.
Not all Australian snakes are venomous but you should follow the basic first aid techniques, just in case.
It is important not to wash the skin, as traces of venom left behind might be needed by medical personnel to identify the snake.
Use a pressure immobilisation bandage and splint the limb.
If the person was bitten on the torso, make sure your bandaging doesn’t restrict their breathing.
Things to remember about snake bites
- In most cases, firmly bandage the site of the wound and keep the person still
- Don’t use tourniquets, cut the puncture site or try to suck out the venom
- Always seek medical advice as quickly as you can
To find out more information on snake bites
Ask your GP or healthcare professional.
Contact the Victorian Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26
Visit Health Direct
