PARAMEDICS have attended about 87 reported snake and spider bites in the Hunter during the past year.
The figures, released on Thursday as NSW Ambulance appealed to the public to exercise caution as venomous creatures became more active, put the Hunter behind only western Sydney during the same period.
Hunter attacks count for more than 10 per cent of the state’s bites during the 12-month period.
Inspector John Brotherhood said paramedics had treated five bites in the past week in NSW as the weather warmed up, with all but one reportedly involving a snake.
“We’re basically urging caution,” he said.
“Around the home, remove piled up debris from the yard and keep lawns mowed to reduce the potential for unexpected visitors.”
Inspector Brotherhood also urged people to check clothing left outside before wearing it.
“Paramedics attend many cases where people have put on boots and gloves and been bitten by spiders and even snakes which were hidden inside,” he said.
“Also, if you lift something such as a rock or log, lift so it’s facing away from you.”
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Anyone bitten by a snake or spider is urged to call 000 immediately.
For snakes and funnel web spiders:
· if the bite is on a limb, apply a pressure immobilisation bandage. The bandage should not cut off the circulation;
· if the bite is not on a limb, apply direct, firm pressure to the bite site with your hands. Keep the patient still and discourage them from walking around; and
· never cut or excise the wound. Do not attempt to suck out the venom out and don’t apply a tourniquet.
For spiders (eg redbacks, white-tails, trapdoors):
· apply an ice pack or cold compress to relieve the pain; and
· if severe symptoms develop, seek medical aid; and
· in the case of small children involved in a suspected redback spider bite, medical aid should be sought, irrespective of whether symptoms manifest.
source:theherald.com.au
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