SUMMER is more then just a time for swimming at the beach and lazy afternoons in the air-conditioning.
It is a time for Gladstone residents to remember snake season is upon us.
The Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) is urging everyone to take care through the summer months as snakes become more active. QAS Central Region Commissioner Peter Warrener said Queensland was home to some of the world’s most deadly snakes including the eastern brown and death adder.
“When it comes to snakebites, prevention is always better than cure,” Mr Warrener said.
“It’s recommended people take extra care to avoid snakes at this time of year.”
Gladstone’s own snake catcher, Kris Foster, said there were simple precautions everyone could take to ensure they were not the victim of a snakebite.
“Snakes do like the summer and are more active in the warmer weather,” he said.
“Always make sure you watch where you step when you’re walking and keep doors shut at all times.”
If you are bitten by a snake the first course of action is to immediately apply a tight bandage to the area and call the ambulance (000).
“Ensuring the snakebite victim remains calm is crucial, as panicking will cause the heart rate to increase, which will spread the poison around the body more quickly,” Mr Warrener said.
Mr Foster also reminds people to be wary of snakes all year round.
“Gladstone doesn’t really get cold enough for snakes to go into hibernation.”
If you have a problem with a snake, call Kris on 0407 372 895 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 0407 372 895 end_of_the_skype_highlighting or for more information go to www.derm.qld.gov.au.
TIPS/PRECAUTIONS
Call 000 immediately if you have been bitten.
Avoid washing the wound as hospitals can test the bandage for poison and may be able to identify the type of snake, which will aid in treatment.
If only one bandage is available, start over the bite site and then work up the limb.
If more than one bandage is available bandage over the bite site, and then with a second bandage start at the extremities (fingers or toes) and work up the limb.
Bandage the limb firmly as you would for a sprained ankle. Splint the limb to keep it straight.
– Sourced from Queensland Ambulance Service
Always make sure you watch where you step when you’re walking and keep doors shut
– Kris Foster