Australia is home to some of the most venomous snakes in the world, and with Perth’s beautiful outdoor lifestyle—from bushwalks in Kings Park to hikes in the Darling Ranges—encounters with snakes are not uncommon. Understanding the correct first aid response to a snake bite is not just important; it could be lifesaving.
In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the essential steps of snake bite first aid and clear up common myths that can lead to dangerous outcomes. Whether you’re exploring the WA outback, gardening in your backyard, or simply educating yourself on life-saving skills, this guide is a must-read.
And if you’re looking to be properly prepared, enrolling in a certified First Aid course in Perth can make all the difference.
🐍 Snake Bites in Australia: What You Need to Know
Australia has around 170 species of snakes, with roughly 100 considered venomous. In Western Australia, you’re most likely to encounter species such as the dugite, tiger snake, or western brown snake, particularly in warmer months.
Despite how dangerous they may seem, snakes generally avoid human contact. Most bites occur when people accidentally step on them or attempt to handle or kill them. Prevention is always the first line of defence, but accidents can still happen. That’s why knowing proper snake bite first aid is crucial.
First Aid for Snake Bites: Stay Calm to Stay Alive
The most important rule of snake bite first aid? Stay calm. Panic increases heart rate and circulation, which may cause venom to spread more rapidly.
Here’s what to do if you or someone else is bitten:
✅ DO: First Aid Steps for a Snake Bite
Call for Help Immediately
Dial 000 for emergency assistance. Time is critical, and professional medical support is non-negotiable.
Keep the Patient Still
- Reassure the person. Minimise movement to slow the spread of venom through the lymphatic system.
- If possible, lay the person down and keep them still.
Apply a Pressure Immobilisation Bandage
- Start wrapping the bite site with a broad pressure bandage (e.g. elastic bandage).
- Wrap firmly but not so tight it cuts circulation.
- Immobilise the limb with a splint to reduce muscle movement.
Mark the Bite Location
If safe to do so, use a pen or marker to indicate the bite site on the bandage. This can assist hospital staff later.
Stay at Rest Until Help Arrives
Do not attempt to walk or move unless absolutely necessary. Let the ambulance come to you.
Keep the Limb at or Below Heart Level
This helps reduce the spread of venom and manage swelling.
🚫 DON’T: What Not to Do After a Snake Bite
Don’t Cut the Wound
Cutting the skin does not help remove venom and can lead to further injury or infection.
Don’t Suck Out the Venom
This old myth is dangerous and ineffective. Your mouth can introduce bacteria and make things worse.
Don’t Apply Ice or Cold Packs
Ice may worsen tissue damage and does nothing to neutralise venom.
Don’t Use a Tourniquet
Tourniquets cut off blood flow entirely, causing severe tissue damage and potentially leading to amputation.
Don’t Try to Catch the Snake
Identifying the snake isn’t essential. Hospitals have antivenoms for all major Australian snakes. Leave the snake alone.
Debunking Common Snake Bite Myths
Unfortunately, misinformation can cause more harm than the bite itself. Let’s set the record straight on some enduring snake bite myths:
❌ Myth 1: Sucking Out the Venom Will Save You
Truth: This is a Hollywood myth. Venom enters the lymphatic system almost immediately and can’t be removed by suction.
❌ Myth 2: You Must Kill the Snake for Identification
Truth: Don’t waste time or risk a second bite. Medical staff can determine the venom type through symptoms and testing.
❌ Myth 3: You Should Apply a Tourniquet
Truth: Tourniquets can do far more harm than good. The pressure immobilisation technique is the correct method in Australia.
❌ Myth 4: All Snake Bites Are Deadly
Truth: While some snakes are highly venomous, others may deliver dry bites (no venom injected). Regardless, all bites require urgent medical attention.
❌ Myth 5: You’ll Instantly Feel the Effects
Truth: Symptoms may take minutes to hours to appear, and mild bites can still be fatal if untreated. Never assume you’re fine.
Why Perth Locals Should Be Snake-Ready
With so many bushland areas, coastal dunes, and dry climate zones, Perth is prime snake habitat. As urban sprawl continues into natural environments, snake encounters may become more common.
If you enjoy outdoor activities, have children or pets, or live near bushland, it’s smart to be snake-ready. Getting certified in First Aid and CPR in Perth could mean the difference between panic and preparedness.
How to Get Snake Bite First Aid Training in Perth
certification course in Perth. Courses usually cover:
- Basic life support
- Pressure immobilisation techniques
- CPR
- Handling bites and stings
- Real-world scenario training
At First Aid Certified, we offer nationally recognised first aid training designed for everyday Australians. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, bushwalker, or work outdoors, our Perth First Aid Courses will give you the skills to stay safe and potentially save a life.
Conclusion: Be Prepared, Not Scared
A snake bite is a serious medical emergency—but with the right knowledge, you can stay calm and act quickly. Remember the key principles: keep still, apply a pressure immobilisation bandage, and seek immediate medical help.
And forget the myths—many of them do more harm than good.
🐍 Ready to Take Action?
Knowledge is power. Enrol in a Perth First Aid Course today and gain the confidence to handle real-life emergencies—including snake bites. Your skills might just save a life, maybe even your own.
👉Book Now at www.firstaidcert.com.au
Learn how to react effectively, stay calm, and separate fact from fiction with our expert-led training.
Disclaimer:
This guide is intended for general educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with healthcare professionals for specific concerns. In an emergency, call 000 immediately.