Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Snake Bites
Basically, do all you can to avoid getting bitten! Do not walk barefoot, or stick your hand
into holes or cracks. However, 50% of people bitten by venomous snakes are not actually
injected with poison (envenomed). If you are bitten by a snake, do not panic. Immobilise
the bitten limb with a splint (such as a stick) and apply a bandage over the site, with firm
pressure, similar to bandaging a sprain. Do not apply a tourniquet, or try to cut or suck the
bite. Get medical help as soon as possible so you can get treated with an antivenene if ne-
cessary.
Water
Never drink tap water unless it has been boiled, filtered or chemically disinfected (such as
with iodine tablets). Never drink from streams, rivers and lakes. It's also best to avoid
drinking from pumps and wells: some do bring pure water to the surface, but the presence
of animals can still contaminate supplies.
Bottled water is available everywhere, though it's better for the environment if you
treat/filter local water.