Safety Around Wild Snakes

Prevention

Watch where you put hands and feet; use a torch at night.

Wear sturdy boots and long trousers in snake country.

Keep yards free of debris piles and rodents that attract snakes.

If you see a snake

Stay calm and stand still, then slowly back away. Give it plenty of space; most bites happen when people try to catch, kill or move snakes.

Never handle a snake you can't identify, even one that looks dead.

If someone is bitten

Call emergency services immediately.

Keep the person calm and as still as possible; remove rings and tight items near the bite.

Do NOT cut, suck, ice, apply a tourniquet, or give alcohol.

In some regions (e.g. Australia, for certain species) a pressure immobilisation bandage is recommended; follow local medical guidance.

Note the time of the bite and, only if safe, a photo of the snake from a distance.