Can You Survive a Snake Bite? The Life-Saving Tips Everyone Needs to Know NOW!
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Australia is renowned for its diverse and unique wildlife, but with that comes the risk of encountering some of the world's most venomous snakes. While snake bite deaths are relatively rare in Australia, the question remains: would you know what to do if you were bitten?
Take the harrowing experience of Cassy Richardson, who was bitten by a snake while disposing of rubbish at her home last Easter. The sudden strike of two fangs into her skin was a stark reminder of the dangers lurking even in our backyards. The brown snake, known for its potent venom, had made its presence known, and with her children at home, Richardson's situation was dire.
Fortunately, Richardson's nursing background taught her to act swiftly. She applied a snake bandage from her first aid kit and remained as calm as possible, transforming the ambulance ride to Bendigo Hospital into a game to keep her children at ease. Her quick thinking and composure likely saved her life.
'I'm just glad that I knew there because a lot of people don't know what to do, or they don't think it's going to happen to them,' Richardson reflected on the incident.
Snake season in Australia can be perilous. As noted by the CSIRO, the effects of climate change may be causing snakes to emerge from their winter dormancy earlier than expected. This was the case for 16-year-old Alek Harrison, who was bitten by an eastern brown snake in August while trying to move it away from a school path. His recovery was a stark reminder of the risks of interacting with these reptiles.
Jessica Harrison, Alek's mother, emphasised the lesson learned from her son's encounter: 'I'm telling him to stay well away from snakes and anything else that can do you harm,' she said, advocating for professional removal services.
Bendigo-based snake catcher Tameeka Stevens has observed an uptick in snake bites resulting from people attempting to handle or harm snakes, sometimes inspired by social media. Stevens strongly advises against such actions, warning of the potential dangers.
So, what should you do if bitten by a snake? St John's Victoria first aid trainer Katie Pai stresses the importance of remaining calm. Laying down and minimising movement can prevent the spread of venom through the body. Applying a compression bandage from the bite site upwards is crucial, and if alone, it's vital to call triple-0 and stay still while waiting for help.
Australia is home to over 200 snake species, with a significant portion being venomous. However, not all bites are deadly. Despite this, every bite should be treated with urgency and caution. Prompt first aid can dramatically increase survival rates.
In the aftermath of her ordeal, Cassy Richardson has not only delegated the task of taking out the rubbish to her husband but has also become an advocate for snake bite preparedness. She urges every household to have a first aid kit equipped with a compression bandage, recognising it as a potential difference between life and death.
St John Ambulance echoes this sentiment, advising anyone bitten by a snake to lie down, apply an immobilisation bandage, and call triple-0 immediately. Local councils can also provide lists of licensed snake controllers to assist in safely managing these encounters.
As members of the Seniors Discount Club, it's essential to be aware of the risks and prepared for any situation. Whether enjoying the great outdoors or simply tending to your garden, knowing how to respond to a snake bite can save a life. Have you ever encountered a snake or know someone who has? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below to help educate and protect our community.
Take the harrowing experience of Cassy Richardson, who was bitten by a snake while disposing of rubbish at her home last Easter. The sudden strike of two fangs into her skin was a stark reminder of the dangers lurking even in our backyards. The brown snake, known for its potent venom, had made its presence known, and with her children at home, Richardson's situation was dire.
Fortunately, Richardson's nursing background taught her to act swiftly. She applied a snake bandage from her first aid kit and remained as calm as possible, transforming the ambulance ride to Bendigo Hospital into a game to keep her children at ease. Her quick thinking and composure likely saved her life.
A snake bite was survived by Cassy Richardson, who attributes her recovery to a compression bandage and staying calm. Credit: Shutterstock
'I'm just glad that I knew there because a lot of people don't know what to do, or they don't think it's going to happen to them,' Richardson reflected on the incident.
Snake season in Australia can be perilous. As noted by the CSIRO, the effects of climate change may be causing snakes to emerge from their winter dormancy earlier than expected. This was the case for 16-year-old Alek Harrison, who was bitten by an eastern brown snake in August while trying to move it away from a school path. His recovery was a stark reminder of the risks of interacting with these reptiles.
Jessica Harrison, Alek's mother, emphasised the lesson learned from her son's encounter: 'I'm telling him to stay well away from snakes and anything else that can do you harm,' she said, advocating for professional removal services.
Bendigo-based snake catcher Tameeka Stevens has observed an uptick in snake bites resulting from people attempting to handle or harm snakes, sometimes inspired by social media. Stevens strongly advises against such actions, warning of the potential dangers.
So, what should you do if bitten by a snake? St John's Victoria first aid trainer Katie Pai stresses the importance of remaining calm. Laying down and minimising movement can prevent the spread of venom through the body. Applying a compression bandage from the bite site upwards is crucial, and if alone, it's vital to call triple-0 and stay still while waiting for help.
Australia is home to over 200 snake species, with a significant portion being venomous. However, not all bites are deadly. Despite this, every bite should be treated with urgency and caution. Prompt first aid can dramatically increase survival rates.
In the aftermath of her ordeal, Cassy Richardson has not only delegated the task of taking out the rubbish to her husband but has also become an advocate for snake bite preparedness. She urges every household to have a first aid kit equipped with a compression bandage, recognising it as a potential difference between life and death.
St John Ambulance echoes this sentiment, advising anyone bitten by a snake to lie down, apply an immobilisation bandage, and call triple-0 immediately. Local councils can also provide lists of licensed snake controllers to assist in safely managing these encounters.
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