Snake Bite Tips for Brisbane Backyards

Living in Brisbane means embracing a unique mix of urban life and nature’s wonders. Taking a leisurely walk through our leafy suburbs, you’re likely to notice well-tended gardens, shady streets, and inviting parks.  It’s never unusual to come across a fluttering bird, a scampering possum, or even a snake winding its way through your garden. This close connection with nature is part of our charm, but it can be concerning—especially when it comes to snake bites.

Although a snake bite sounds alarming, national records tell us that only two to three people a year across Australia die from snake bites. That impressive safety record is largely thanks to Australia having one of the world’s best understanding of First Aid for Snake Bites.

Safety Techniques

Indigenous communities have long recognised the value of stillness after a snake bite. Aboriginal groups, like the Jaanga people of inland Queensland, traditionally believed that someone bitten by a snake should avoid movement for days. Modern science now confirms that staying still indeed slows the venom’s spread, proving that ancient wisdom and modern medicine can work hand in hand.

The secret lies in the precious minutes immediately following a bite. Understanding exactly how to act can save a life. Many people mistakenly believe that a snake’s venom quickly zips through the bloodstream, but it actually moves slowly via the lymphatic system—a network of tiny vessels just under your skin that carries lymph fluid around your body. When you move around, your muscles help the lymph push the venom faster, potentially putting vital organs at risk. That’s why the golden rule is to keep still. A rushed dash to the car or frantic movement can worsen the situation by speeding up the venom’s journey.

One of the most effective techniques to slow down the flow of venom is the Pressure Immobilisation Technique (PIT). While it may sound complicated, it’s actually quite simple. With a heavy crepe bandage and a little practice, anyone can learn it.

Here’s how to apply it:

1. Call for Emergency Help: Dial Triple Zero (000) right away. As you start attending to the bite, have someone else make the call because every second matters.
2. Keep the Patient Still: Ask the person who’s been bitten to sit or lie down in a calm, relaxed position. Minimising movement is key, since any extra motion can cause the venom to spread more quickly through the lymphatic system.
3. Apply a Two-Layer Bandage
   1. First Layer – Direct Bite Site: Begin by placing a Heavy Crepe Bandage directly over the bite. This initial layer focuses on keeping the venom localised by compressing the lymphatic vessels around the bite area
   2. Second Layer – Wrap the Entire Limb: Using a broader elastic bandage, wrap the entire limb starting from just above the fingers or toes and working your way up, overlapping the first bandage. This method ensures that you’re not only covering the bite but also providing consistent compression along the full length of the limb. The wrap should be tight enough to slow the movement of the lymph fluid but not so tight that it cuts off circulation.
4. Mark the Bite Area: If you can do so safely, use a marker or pen to mark the location of the bite on the bandage. This simple step is very helpful to medical professionals once they arrive, as it lets them know exactly where the bite occurred.
5. Immobilise the Limb: Secure the bandaged limb any way you can. The goal is to keep the limb completely still to prevent any further movement that might help the venom travel faster. Do not remove or adjust the bandages until medical professionals take over, even if the patient starts feeling better.

Training in first aid is a must for everyone living in or visiting areas where snake encounters are possible. Jay Mullins, from My First Aid Course Brisbane, explains, “Simple steps and cool heads save more lives than people realise. With the right approach, a snake bite is rarely the end of the story.”  He Continues: “Sadly, fewer than 10% of Queenslanders keep their first aid skills up to date, meaning many miss out on learning life-saving knowledge that could help them handle snake bites. There is no substitute for hands-on practice.”

Misconceptions

Unfortunately, many dangerous myths still circulate about how to deal with snake bites. One common misconception is that you should suck the venom out of the wound. Another myth advises cutting the skin around the bite, yet doing these may lead to severe bleeding or infection and does nothing to halt the venom’s progress.

One common misconception is that you need to identify the snake before treatment. In reality, there’s no need to pinpoint the species because medical teams can manage most snake bites with universal antivenom.

More Tips

To minimise the risk of snake bites, start by keeping your surroundings neat and well-maintained. Trim overgrown vegetation, clear clutter from your yard, and ensure that any gaps under doors or fences are properly sealed to prevent snakes or other critters from sneaking in. When venturing into areas with tall grass or dense foliage, opt for sturdy footwear that provides adequate protection.

If you do come across a snake, remember not to panic. Give it plenty of space and allow it to move away on its own. It’s important not to try to handle or confront the snake—this can be dangerous for both you and the reptile. Instead, calmly back away and, if necessary, contact a licensed snake catcher who can safely remove the animal from the area.

The overall picture is reassuring.  With proper precautions and by taking a first aid course you can be snake bite smart. In a city like Brisbane where nature and urban living intertwine first aid can give residents the confidence and peace of mind when nature surprises you in your own backyard.