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.
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!
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
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.
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