Snake and Spider bites - you may only have minutes to act

Spring is the beginning of snake and spider bite season - as the weather warms up, snake breeding activity can make them more active and aggressive. And as we all start heading outdoors to enjoy the warm weather recreation, it's a recipe for an increase in Snake and Spider bites.

Snake bite incidents are relatively common, with around 3,000 reported cases annually here in Australia. However, fatalities are rare, averaging about 2-4 deaths per year over recent decades.

Mouse spider, Brown snake, and Taipan, among others, all of which possess potent venoms that can lead to serious health complications if not treated promptly and correctly. It's important to note that while the risk of death is low, bites from venomous snakes and spiders can still lead to significant health complications if not treated promptly.

The first step as is with any first aid injury or accidents is PREVENTION. You can take many steps to avoid being bitten when you head outdoors. 

Regardless of the season, taking precautions such as:

• Wearing appropriate clothing
• Using gloves when gardening
• Being cautious in areas where snakes and spiders are likely to be present
• Having a basic understanding of first aid for bites and carrying an appropriate first aid kit (more on this below!)

These can help reduce the risk for Snake and Spider bites.

As always with any and all first aid emergencies, you start with DRSABCD. We have a quick blog over here about what DRSABCD is and how to do it. Following this, do the following first aid for Snake bites:

1. Immobilise: Keep the affected limb as still as possible. Restrict movement to prevent the venom from spreading quickly.
2. Pressure Immobilisation Technique: This involves applying a firm pressure bandage, such as our Evo-Bandage, along the entire length of the bitten limb. Use a bandage or cloth, and wrap it firmly but not too tight, starting from the bite site and working your way up the limb.
3. Splinting: Immobilise the limb with a splint or makeshift support to further minimise movement.
4. Stay Calm: Panic accelerates heart rate and can lead to faster venom circulation. Stay calm and avoid using a tourniquet, cutting the bite, or attempting to suck out the venom. (see more important notes below!)

1. Ice: Apply wrapped ice pack to the bitten area to reduce pain.
2. Raise: Raise limb to limit swelling.

1. Wash: Wash with water and soap.
2. Ice: Apply wrapped ice pack to relieve pain or discomfort.
3. Advice: Seek medical advice.

Important Notes:

• Do Not: Do not attempt to cut the wound, suck out venom, or use a tourniquet. These methods can worsen the situation.
• Identification: If possible, try to remember the colour, size, and markings of the snake or spider. This can help medical professionals determine the appropriate treatment.
• First Aid Training: Having basic first aid training, including knowledge of the pressure immobilisation technique, can be invaluable in emergency situations.

Having a well-stocked first aid kit is crucial when dealing with various injury situations. We offer a compact, multifunctional first aid kit that contains basic supplies for treating common wounds.

The first aid kit is equipped with high-quality medical latex-free bandages with pressure indicators for quick and effective bleeding control. It also contains scissors, antiseptics, medical tape, etc. for wound cleaning and dressing. A color-coded wound guide is included, detailing treatment procedures for different wounds.

The kit also contains some other basic supplies such as emergency blankets, face masks, flashlights, whistles, etc. to deal with various emergency situations. It is lightweight and compact, suitable to be placed in households, offices, car toolboxes, etc. for quick action when accidents happen.

If you have any questions about our first aid kit, please feel free to contact us anytime. Our customer service staff will provide product consultation and usage guidance to ensure you can use the first aid kit correctly and effectively.