Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
IF BITTEN BY A SNAKE...
Snakes are some of the most remarkable creatures of the desert and deserve considerable respect for their survival
skills. Most are non-venomous or only mildly toxic but a few are a bit more challenging. The only time you're
likely to encounter them is camping in the sands or walking up wadis where they will make every attempt to
avoid you - and you should do the same. If you are unlikely enough to get bitten follow this advice:
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Don't panic: half of those bitten by venomous snakes are not actually injected with poison (envenomed).
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Immobilise the bitten limb with a splint (eg a stick).
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Apply a bandage over the site, with firm pressure, similar to bandaging a sprain.
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Do not apply a tourniquet, or cut or suck the bite.
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Get the victim to medical help as soon as possible so that antivenin can be given if necessary.
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If you have the presence of mind, take a photo of the snake for identification to aid doctors in giving the appro-
priate antivenin.
