Australia is home to around 100 venomous snakes, so snake bites can be a serious concern especially for those who work outdoors, hike, or live in rural areas!

So what’s the correct First Aid treatment for a snake bite?

Stay Calm and Still

The most important thing you can do is keep the person as still and calm as possible. Movement increases the spread of venom through the lymphatic system, so try to keep the bitten limb as still as possible and avoid unnecessary movement.

If you’re the one who has been bitten, try to stay still and call for help – don’t attempt to walk or run unless absolutely necessary (easier said than done, we know!).

Call Triple Zero (000)

Time is critical in treating snake bites, so it’s important to call an ambulance as soon as you can. Even if you’re unsure whether the snake is venomous, it’s always best to treat all bites as potentially dangerous.

If you can, take note of the snake’s appearance (colour, size, markings) to give the medical professionals a better idea of what snake they’re dealing with – but do not try to catch or kill it.

Apply a Pressure Immobilisation Bandage

Use a wide bandage to wrap the affected limb starting at the bite site, then working your way down and back up the limb. The goal is to apply firm, consistent pressure – not tight enough to cut off circulation, but enough to slow blood flow.

After bandaging, splint the limb to reduce movement even further, and avoid removing the bandage or washing the bite as medical professionals may need to test for venom traces.

Do Not:

• Don’t cut the wound

• Don’t suck out the venom

• Don’t apply a tourniquet

• Don’t wash the bite area

• Don’t give the person anything to eat or drink, especially alcohol

These older methods are outdated and can cause more harm than good.

Stay With the Person Until Help Arrives

Monitor their breathing and level of consciousness, and be prepared to begin CPR if necessary.

When in Doubt, Always Treat it Seriously

Not all snakes are venomous, but it’s never worth the risk to assume that it’s not! If you live in a rural or bushland area, carrying a first aid kit with a pressure immobilisation bandage is a smart move to be prepared for anything.

And of course, knowing how to apply first aid for snake bites could save a life. Book into one of our nationally accredited first aid courses to learn practical, life-saving skills for emergencies like these.

Enrol in a First Aid Course with RTS Training