Knowing the right response can be key to staying safe, so why not take the time to be prepared?

1. Call an ambulance immediately

Don’t worry about dashing for your phone if you need assistance and must remain still! Instead, you can receive help quickly and easily by using your mobile device. To summon an ambulance, use the Emergency+ app or contact Triple Zero (000). This software uses your phone’s GPS to pinpoint your exact location to emergency personnel. So don’t be afraid to get assistance swiftly and readily!

2. Don’t panic and don’t move

If you ever find yourself in the unfortunate situation of being bitten by a poisonous snake, stay calm and still. Although it may not be easy, this may save your life by limiting the spread of venom. Unlike blood which is constantly pumped around your body, venom travels through your lymphatic system, a fluid made up of white blood cells. Keeping your body still will ensure the venom doesn’t spread deeper and poses a lower risk of poisoning.

3. Leave the snake alone

Instead of trying to kill the snake, it’s best to head to a hospital right away. The medical staff there can give you various tests to identify which snake may have bitten you, and they’ll be able to provide you with the best treatment possible

4. Apply a splint and pressure-immobilization bandage.

A 10-15 cm wide elasticized roller bandage is required to apply a pressure immobilization bandage. Begin wrapping at the bite site and work your way up the limb, making sure the bandage is wrapped securely but not too tightly. It should be stiff enough to inhibit lymphatic movement while not interfering with blood circulation.

5. Don’t wash, suck, cut, or tourniquet the bite

Washing the area where you were bitten by a snake is still beneficial because it can help the medical team identify the snake that bit you and collect venom samples. While it may be tempting, try to avoid sucking or cutting near the bite, and never use a tourniquet; doing so can be dangerous.