BY JARROD MELMETH
Outdoor enthusiasts are being urged to remain on the lookout for snakes as the weather warms up.
Snake sightings have increased across the Hunter, prompting the Australian Reptile Park to issue an alert to families in lockdown who are partaking in bush walks.
Australia is home to the world's most venomous snakes, and sees approximately 3000 snake bites occur per year, of which around 300 receive antivenom, and on average, around two people die from those bites.
Reptile Keeper Jake Meney says anyone who goes bushwalking should be well versed in snake first aid.
"It is every Australians responsibility to know what to do if they were to be bitten by a venomous snake.
"If you were to be bitten what you would want to do is apply a pressure immobilization bandage to the bitten limb. You would then immobilise the limb, immobilise the victim and get them to medical attention as quickly as possible.
If you encounter a snake, Mr Meney says to remain calm, do not disturb the snake and it should go away on it's own.
Residents are also being reminded to take preventative action to deter snakes from entering backyards by keeping grass areas mowed and well maintained; avoid piling up left over wood or accumulating stick piles; and to no allow rubbish or scrap materials to build up around the home, as these areas provide a safe house for snakes.
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| Image: Australia Reptile Park |
