Awareness and First Aid

Aah, summer, temperatures are hot, and snakes are also out to play.

While most snakes would rather avoid humans, knowing how to stay safe, recognise when you’re at risk, and respond to a snake bite is important.

Need help this summer? Call ER24 on 084 124

Why you need to be aware of snakes in the summer

Much like humans, warm weather means that snakes thrive in the summer. They come out more frequently to hunt, bask, and move between shelter and food sources. You may spot them in these areas:

  • In long grass
  • Under rocks, wood, or the garden
  • Near water sources such as rivers
  • In hiking and camping areas/trails
  • In cool dark corners of garages or storage spaces

These are snakes you can expect to encounter in the South African summer

  • Puff adders
  • Cape cobras
  • Black mambas
  • Boomslang
  • Rinkhals

These snakes may bite you if they are stepped on, feel threatened, or startled. Signs that you have been bitten by a venomous snake include sudden, intense pain, swelling around the bite, blurred vision or difficulty breathing, and feelings of nausea or weakness. These symptoms can progress quickly, which is why immediate medical attention is important.

Avoiding snake bites this summer

By following these guidelines from ER24 this summer, you can reduce the chances of being bitten by a snake:

  • Wear closed shoes when walking in long grass or bushy areas.
  • Never put your hands into holes, dark, cool, and shady spaces.
  • Check your shoes, tents, and sleeping bags when you are camping.
  • Keep your yard tidy by cutting your grass, clearing clutter away, and sealing any gaps.
  • Use a flashlight when walking outside at night.
  • Avoid provoking or attempting to kill snakes; instead, call professionals to remove them safely for you.

What to do if you get bitten

If you’re bitten by a snake, stay calm, limit movement, and try to keep still. Do not cut the wound, try to suck out the venom, or apply ice. Rather, call ER24 on 084 124 immediately. If symptoms worsen, seek medical assistance immediately. Taking a photo of the snake from a safe distance will help health professionals identify the species, but never put yourself at risk to get the picture.

If you, your child, or anyone around you is bitten by a snake and shows worrying symptoms, call ER24 on 084 124 immediately