Snake expo excites audience at Netcare Mulbarton
Take note: Tips offered by the snake handlers on how to be safe around snakes
JOHANNESBURG SOUTH – Netcare Mulbarton Hospital commemorated World Trauma Day on October 17 with a show of note, which was presented by Nick van der Walt and André Barnard of Snake Wise.
The Snake Wise expo stole the show as an educational talk was given by registered Snake Wise experts on the different types of snakes found in residential areas and what to do should residents come across them.
One hundred learners from Cuddle Inn Nursery School were part of the mesmerized audience who anxiously watched as the snake handlers brought out a mole snake, a puff adder, a boomslang, a snouted cobra and a rinkhals.
Expert snake handler Nick van der Walt said: “The rinkhals is one of the most dangerous snakes that is found in these areas and the only snake that’s got the white stripes. If you ever see this snake, stay away, don’t ever pick it up. This snake can also spit poison. The difference between a rinkhals and a cobra is that the rinkhals gives birth to live babies.”
Another snake which is commonly found in residential areas is the boomslang. Snake expert Andre Barnard explained that the Boomslang is green in colour and is deadly. There is no anti-venom for a bite from this snake.
Tips offered by the snake handlers on how to be safe around snakes:
• Don’t touch a snake.
• If you don’t know what it is, don’t pick it up. It might look cute but it could be deadly.
• Snakes react to movement. If you see a snake in the area be sure to stand still and don’t make any sudden movements.
• If a child gets bitten by a snake, they should tell their parents and not be afraid of getting in trouble.
“World Trauma Day is on October 17. Although, because it’s a Friday and we are nearing the December holidays, we involved the crèche because around summer time there are always near drowning and other trauma incidents. We want the people to know that Mulbarton Hospital is well equipped and can manage any trauma incident,” said the nursing manager, Maureen Khoza.
Various other safety awareness presentations such as CPR demonstrations, helmets and safety, pet awareness were held in the courtyard, in front of reception, from 08:00 to 13:00. The Netcare 911 paramedics were also there to speak to visitors.
Visit www.comarochronicle.co.za for a video of the snake expo and for a picture gallery.
