By There are over 600 species of snakes worldwide, but only about 15% of them are venomous. In Australia, the most common venomous snakes include the rattlesnake, coral snake, water moccasin, and copperhead.
Venomous snakes inject poison into their victims through their fangs, which can cause a range of symptoms, including pain, swelling, bruising, nausea, laboured breathing, and even death.
Non-venomous snakes, on the other hand, do not produce venom and their bites are generally not life-threatening.
No matter the species of snake bite that has occurred, the presence of a snake bite first aid kit cannot be overestimated.
Why Every Australian Needs to Own a Snake Bite Kit
Snake bites are more common in Australia, especially in areas with known snake populations. These kits are designed to provide first aid treatment until you can get medical help. Even a non-venomous snake bite can get infected, so a proper kit is helpful regardless of the snake type.
You don’t have to be a bushwalker or an outdoorsy person to be at risk of a snake bite, either. Thousands of suburban homes near sand dunes, bush reserves and lakes have reported unwanted slithering visitors in their yards.
In fact, more than half of the snake bite deaths between 2000 and 2016 occurred in and around the home. That’s right, your own backyard could be a snake bite waiting to happen! Every Australian should know how to treat a snake bite and have access to a snake bite first aid kit.
While it’s true that people who work outdoors or engage in outdoor activities are at higher risk, the reality is that anyone can be bitten by a snake. In fact, middle-aged males are the most common victims of snake bites, and more than 20% of fatal attacks occur when the victim is trying to kill or pick up the snake.
Given these statistics, it’s clear that having a first aid kit on hand is no longer just a precaution, but a necessity. By having access to a snake bite first aid kit, you can ensure that you’re prepared in the event of an emergency.
Symptoms of a Snake Bite
Sometimes, you may not be aware that you have been bitten by a snake until you begin to show symptoms. You have to take action immediately if you notice any of these symptoms:
- Severe pain at the site of the bite
- Swelling, bruising, or redness around the bite
- Nausea or vomiting
- Labored breathing or difficulty swallowing
- Weakness or numbness in the face, arms, or legs
- Abdominal pain or diarrhea
If you experience any of these symptoms after a snake bite, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. While you wait for professional help to arrive, grab your snake bite kit, follow the instructions on the manual step by step, and make the victim comfortable for the time being.
That said, let us now discuss the variety of snake bite kits available in Australia, along with some other essential medical supplies that’ll help you deal with a snake bite emergency.
Types of Snake Bite Kits
There are two main categories of snake bite kits namely:
Pre-made Kits
These are convenient and often include everything you need, including crepe bandages, triangular bandages, instructions, and sometimes even a suction device.
Brands like Stryker, Zoll and Aero Healthcare all make reputable first-aid kits that typically include snake bite-specific supplies. You can find a ready-to-use kit easily in a local pharmacy or a leading online store selling first aid supplies.
DIY Kits
If you’re on a budget or want to customise your kit, you can build your own. Just make sure to include the essential heavy-duty crepe bandages, triangular bandages and antiseptic wipes.
You can find most of these supplies at your local pharmacy at very affordable prices, or you can simply order them online.
What’s Inside a Snake Bite Kit?
Here are the main items you’ll find in a first aid kit:
Compression Bandages
One of the most critical components of a snake bite kit is compression bandages. These bandages are designed to provide firm, even pressure to the affected limb, which helps to slow the spread of venom through the lymphatic system.
When selecting a snake bite kit, look for one that includes at least two heavy-duty crepe bandages or snake bite bandages. These bandages should be designed to provide compression without restricting blood flow.
You can opt for the 30020 snake bite kit which includes two heavy-duty crepe bandages, which are designed to provide effective compression and slow the spread of venom.
First Aid Instructions
First-aid instructions are also a vital component of any snake bite kit. These instructions should provide clear, step-by-step guidance on how to treat a snake bite, including how to apply compression bandages, clean the wound and provide additional care as needed.
These instructions are necessary so someone with little to no medical experience can administer first aid when the need arises.
Look for a kit that includes comprehensive instructions that are easy to follow, even in emergency situations. The instructions should also include information on how to identify different snake types and what types of bandages can be used to slow the flow of venom.
Other Essential Supplies
In addition to compression bandages and first aid instructions, a good snake bite kit should also include other essential supplies, such as antiseptic wipes, sterile gauze pads and a splint.
Antiseptic wipes can help to clean the wound and prevent infection, while sterile gauze pads can be used to cover the wound and keep it clean. A splint can also help to immobilise the affected limb and prevent further injury.
You’ll find all of these in a well-stocked snake bite kit such as the Aero Healthcare snake bite kit.
DIY Snake Bite Kits
If you’re making your own snake bite kit from scratch, here are the essentials that you can’t afford to skimp on:
- Heavy-duty crepe bandages (2-3 rolls)
- Triangular bandage
- Marker pen
- Scissors
- Compression bandage
We hope this post was helpful. Make sure to stay alert while enjoying outdoor adventures and keep a snake bite kit handy to confidently deal with any mishaps.
