Man stable after snake bite in Whitsundays
A man in his 20s has been airlifted to Mackay Hospital after a snake bite at a Whitsundays property in the early hours of Saturday morning.
A man has been rushed to hospital after being bitten by a snake in the early hour of the morning in the Whitsundays.
The man in his 20s was bitten at 1.10am on Saturday at a private property, a Queensland Ambulance spokesman said.
He was flown by helicopter to Mackay Hospital in a stable condition.
What do I do if I see a snake?
According to the Queensland Government website:
“Don’t panic. Back away to a safe distance and allow the snake to move away. Snakes often want to escape when disturbed. Remember, all native wildlife, including snakes, is protected.”
If the snake is in your house, it is important that you never try to kill the snake.
Not only is it illegal to kill a native animal, but it places you at a higher risk of being bitten if you force the snake to defend itself.
Close the internal doors in the house and open the external doors and windows. Block the gaps underneath internal doors with rolled up towels. Place chairs and boxes under windows to make it easier for snakes to climb out. Keep everyone well clear of the snake.
Call RSPCA Qld on 1300 264 625 or contact your nearest snake specialist.
What do I do if I get bitten by a snake?
– Keep the person at rest, reassured and under observation.
– Dial triple-0.
– Do not wash venom off the skin or clothes.
– Begin CPR, if necessary. 30 chest compressions per 2 breaths.
– If bitten on a limb, apply a firm bandage on the bite site. Ensure the limb is immobilised and the person remains still.
– Work the bandage from the limb foot or hand upwards, working towards the heart and covering as much of the limb as possible. If you can, apply a splint to keep the limb immobile.
– Keep the person still and reassured until medical attention arrives.
