Snakes 101: If bitten, get to a hospital

The busy snake season on the South Coast is nearly over, and sightings should decrease as the weather cools.

However, several mambas and other snakes were spotted around the mid-South Coast over the last few weeks, with Crocworld Conservation Centre staff heading out to many spots to remove some of the venomous ones.

According to Crocworld’s manager, James Wittstock, most bites occur when a person tries to catch or kill a snake.

“There are about 10 to 50 snake bite deaths every year, with the majority of incidents in rural areas (usually people don’t receive the correct medical attention in time),” said Wittstock.

“I strongly advise people not to interfere with snakes and to leave their capture to the professionals.”

Wittstock said there are three important things to remember when you spot a snake:

1. Do not try to catch it, especially if you are not trained/qualified and do not know what species it is.

2. Do not try and kill a snake. You will be putting yourself at risk of being bitten more easily as you would be getting closer to it.

3. Phone a professional snake catcher or contact Crocworld for assistance.

“If you are bitten, get to the hospital right away,” said Wittstock.

He added that most snake bites are usually inflicted below the knee and on the hand or wrist.

“It is helpful to identify the type of snake that bit you, but it is not crucial. Doctors would be able to treat the bite symptomatically. Don’t waste time trying to catch the snake that bit you – get to the hospital immediately. And remember, the patient must remain calm and not move around too much as movement can increase the rate that the venom spreads through your system.”

People can educate themselves on the common snakes in the area they reside. On the South Coast, the most common venomous snakes are the black and green mambas, stiletto snakes, puff adders, vine snakes and the boomslang.

“Know what they look like, what kind of venom they have, and then you’ll have some knowledge of what info to provide to a hospital should you be bitten,” said Wittstock.

To try and prevent snakes in your residential area, avoid leaving rubble, bricks, grass or wood lying around as these are great hiding spots. Fill holes and crevices around the home. Domestic rabbits, birds and chickens often attract snakes too. Dispose of rubbish properly, as this will attract rodents which are prey for snakes, and keep vegetation away from openings such as windows.

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