Beware of snakes in flood waters

16 December 2010

Hunter New England Health is warning people living in the region, to be aware of the increased presence and activity of venomous snakes particularly in areas affected by flood waters

Health Services Functional Area Coordinator Chris Kewley has urged people to learn how to respond to snake bites quickly and properly, and to seek medical attention if they occur.

“Its important that people do not to attempt to handle or go near the snakes,  however if a bite does occur swift administration of first aid is crucial and can help save the life of someone who has been bitten by a snake or spider,” Mr Kewley said.

The procedure for dealing with a snake bite is:

• Call 000
• Place a firm bandage to the limb (arm or leg) commencing at the bite site, then wrapping down to the fingers or toes and then up to the limb to the hip or shoulder
• Bring transport to the patient (the patient should lay with limb flat quietly until trained help arrives)
• The patient should not attempt to walk or run
• Keep the limb still with a splint
• Do not wash the bite
• Do not cut the bite site
• Do not apply a tourniquet to the affected limb
• Under no circumstances should the bandage be removed until the patient has reached trained medical care

“It is also important people do not try and catch the snake unless you are trained or you might end up getting bitten again,” Mr Kewley said.

Contact: Sharna McCarthy

Phone: 4921 4501