28/12/2019
Snakes are often found along the Lower Murray Canoe Trail and the information below is quite useful.
Heading out and about in our beautiful region these holidays?
Refresh your knowledge of what to do in the event of a snake bite.
First, is the individual’s breathing impaired or are they in cardiac arrest? If yes, perform CPR before any of the other first aid steps.
Then call Triple Zero (000) - assume every snake is venomous in South Australia.
Snake bite first aid:
1. Keep the person calm and still – this helps slow the spread of venom through the lymphatic system.
2. DO NOT WASH OR SUCK THE WOUND.
3. Apply a pressure immobilisation bandage to the bite (any stretchy material will do).
4. DO NOT USE a tourniquet to cut off blood supply.
5. Apply the bandage tightly, as you would to a sprain, but not so tight it acts as a tourniquet.
6. Extend the bandage to cover all of the bitten limb (including fingers and toes).
7. Splint the limb to keep it from moving.
8. Stay calm until help/emergency transport arrives.
