Hiking and Snakes - how to stay safe?

Do you know what to do if one of these not-so-cuddly reptiles crosses your path?

by Michele Michel

Spring is such a wonderful time to be out in the bush- the weather is warmer, the wildflowers are in bloom- but along with those delights it is also the time that our slithery friends- snakes are awakened…and will be active for the next few months.

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The facts are, snake bites and more so, snakebite deaths are a very rare occurrence in Australia - only 1-2 deaths per year – mostly in very remote settings. Of course, that does not mean we are immune - but we can be prepared!

A non-venomous Diamond Python

A non-venomous Diamond Python

Please remember snakes are not predators- we are NOT a food source for them and it’s true they will only strike if under threat- and not for the sake of it.

If you are going out on trails that have the likelihood of snakes being about (and realistically that is everywhere);

  • ·Wear long pants and/or gaiters, hiking boots

  • Stay on tracks and avoid long grass

  • Be vigilant and mindful where you place hands if rock scrambling

  • Carry at least 2 compression bandages- you can buy Setopress bandages that have a pictogram to help get the correct tension.

  • Don’t hike alone

Hiking Boots and Gaiters provide good protection

Hiking Boots and Gaiters provide good protection

So, what to do if one of these not-so-cuddly reptiles crosses your path?

Firstly (and this after you let out that involuntary girly scream) STAND STILL and LEAVE IT ALONE - do not attempt to pick it up or get close to shoo it away.

Wait to see if the snake moves on by itself - then slowly back away, most of the time it will move on, and you can take a wide berth detour around. Try to create some vibrations on the ground by stomping your feet or banging your pole…to encourage it to move on.

The common but shy Red-bellied Black snake shares our love of water and sunshine.

The common but shy Red-bellied Black snake shares our love of water and sunshine.

In the unlikely event you do get bitten- you will not know if you have been envenomated or not- so you must assume you are.

Follow DRSABCD

·       Remain as calm and STILL as possible by laying down (the venom travels via movement)

·       Phone or send for help- ring 000- activate your safety beacon

·       DO NOT wash area

·       Put a pressure bandage over the bite itself (and clothing) - then use a compression bandage to immobilise the whole limb- start just above the fingers or toes and bandage as far as possible. Splint the limbs to prevent movement. Mark bite mark site.

·       Wait for help to arrive… and STAY STILL

 

Jo Vartanian