Townsville snake bites spark warning from paramedics

A spike in snake bites has prompted a warning for NQ residents to take extra care to avoid them as the reptiles get more active in the warmer months. Check out the call-out hot spots here.

A spike in snake bites has prompted a warning for NQ residents to take extra care to avoid them as the reptiles get more active in the warmer months.

Queensland Ambulance Services (QAS) attended a patient at West End shortly before 10.45am last Friday — the 95th snake bite related call-out Townsville paramedics have responded to in the last 12 months.

It comes after a father-of-two died after being bitten by a snake inside his home in the Lockyer Valley on Saturday.

A QAS spokesman said they often see an increase in snake bite responses in the warmer months.

They responded to 12 call-outs last month, including reported bites at Rollingstone on December 28, Kirwan on December 18, Little Crystal Creek on December 16, Bluewater home on December 11, Mundingburra on December 9 and Kelso on December 8 and 7.

A Queensland man died after a suspected eastern brown snake bite on Saturday. Picture: Supplied

“Prevention is better than cure when it comes to snakes – take extra care to avoid them over summer,” the spokesman said.

“It’s important to know snake bite first aid and have appropriate equipment if you live on a remote property where it may take longer for a paramedic to reach you.

“With snakes about to be on the move – avoid walking through long grass, wear sturdy enclosed shoes and ensure you have quick access to a quality compression bandage.”

If you are bitten by a snake, paramedics advise you to avoid washing a snake bite wound because the hospital may need to test the bandage for poison to identify the type of snake.

“If you witness a snake bite – call triple-0 (000) immediately and keep the patient as calm as possible,” the QAS spokesman said.

“Most snake bites occur on the lower limbs, and many happen when people are trying to kill or move a snake.

“Snake bite signs are not always visible but may include puncture marks, bleeding or scratches.

“You should also try to: bandage over the snake bite firmly, then work up the limb starting at the extremities (fingers and toes). Splint the limb to keep it straight and advise the patient to avoid unnecessary movements.”

Originally published as Townsville snake bites spark warning from paramedics