Snake Safety

Australia's remote Outback, offers a natural canvas of endless blue skies, red earth, and unique flora and fauna. However, it is home to a host of venomous snakes, with the risk of snake bites being a concern for all campers. This article highlights the potential dangers of snake bites, essential prevention measures, what to do if you encounter a snake, first aid tips, and a detailed description of the most common snakes found in the most common areas of Australia. While camping over the years we have had many snake encounters and by staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings you can reduce your chances of an unwelcome encounter.

#Understanding the Risks: Snake Bites in Outback Australia

Australia is renowned for its biodiversity, which includes a variety of venomous snake species. Snake bites, while not common, can potentially be fatal if not treated correctly and promptly. The danger lies in the venom, which can cause various reactions, ranging from paralysis and severe pain to kidney damage and even death. Recognizing the risks and acting responsibly is the first step to a safer camping trip.

#Preventing Encounters: How to Avoid Snakes

• Awareness and Preparedness: Familiarize yourself with the type of snakes you may encounter and learn about their habits. This knowledge will help you better understand potential danger areas.

• Choose Campsites Wisely: Avoid camping near log piles, rocks, long grass, or water bodies where snakes may reside. Keep your camping area tidy and free from food scraps to avoid attracting rodents, which in turn attract snakes.

• Wear Protective Clothing: Long pants, sturdy boots, and thick socks can provide an extra layer of protection against snake bites.

• Use a Torch at Night: Snakes are often more active during cooler parts of the day and night. Using a torch can help you spot and avoid snakes.

• Make noise when walking: walking heavily and scuffing the ground alerts snakes to your presence, most snakes are sensitive to your approach and will turn the other way or redirect to avoid you.

#Facing the Fears: What to Do If You Encounter a Snake

Stay calm, keep your distance, and do not attempt to handle or kill the snake. Remember, snakes often bite as a defensive measure, and most bites occur when people try to kill or capture them. Instead, slowly back away and allow the snake to move on.

#First Aid Tips for Venomous Snake Bites

It's essential to carry a first aid kit with compression bandages and know how to use it correctly. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Immobilize the patient and the affected body part. Do not wash the bite site as venom traces can help identify the snake.

2. Apply a pressure immobilization bandage starting from the bite site, and cover the whole limb.

3. Call emergency services (in Australia, dial 000) immediately for professional medical help.

4. Stay with the patient and keep calm, keeping the patients heart rate as low as possible will give more time for emergency services to attend.

#Knowing Your Snakes: Top 5 Most Common Snakes in Outback Australia

1. Eastern Brown Snake: One of the most venomous snakes in the world, it is fast-moving, aggressive, and known to strike with little provocation.

2. Western Brown Snake: Less aggressive than its eastern counterpart, it is still highly venomous. Its color can vary dramatically, making it difficult to identify.

3. Mainland Tiger Snake: Known for their potent venom and distinctive banded pattern, they thrive in cooler climates.

4. Mulga Snake or King Brown: Despite its name, it comes in a variety of colors. It has the largest venom output of any snake in the world.

5. Death Adder: Unlike the others, it relies on camouflage rather than fleeing. Its venom can cause paralysis and death if not promptly treated.

Camping in Australia's Outback is a fantastic experience. But as we bask in the beauty of the Bush, let's not forget the potential dangers lurking. With adequate knowledge, preparation, and respect for the wildlife, we can minimize the risks and enjoy the adventure. Remember, in the event of a snake bite, stay calm, apply first aid, and seek professional medical help immediately