What to do if you see a snake
- April-Ann Currie
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Out here in north-east Victoria, spotting a snake isn’t exactly rare - it’s part of life in the bush (and sometimes even in your backyard). While most snakes would rather slither off than start trouble, it pays to know what to do if you cross paths with one. More importantly, if the worst does happen and someone’s bitten, having a proper snake bite kit on hand and knowing how to use it could literally save a life.
Snakes aren’t looking for a fight, they’d rather avoid you altogether. But if you do encounter one:
If indoors, close the door and place towels under it to confine the snake
Call a licensed snake catcher (fees may apply)
Never try to catch or kill the snake - it’s illegal and dangerous
Stay calm and give the snake space to move away outside
First aid that saves lives
If someone is bitten, quick and correct action is critical. Here’s what to do:
✅ Do:
Reassure the victim and keep them calm
Lay them down and apply a pressure bandage over the bite site
Bandage from the tip of the limb to the armpit or groin (“Tip to Pit”)
Splint the limb to reduce movement
Call 000 immediately
❌ Don’t:
• Wash, cut, or suck the wound
• Apply a tourniquet or tight bandage
• Attempt to identify or handle the snake
Correct first aid can dramatically improve outcomes. For example, collapse from a brown snake bite can occur within 30 minutes if no first aid is given - so every second counts.
Why you need a Snakebite Kit
At Northeast Training, we stock a range of Snake Bite First Aid Kits featuring the Snake Bite Indicator Bandage. This innovative bandage includes a visual pressure indicator to help ensure correct application - an essential tool when every moment matters.
Our kits are:
Compact and easy to carry
Equipped with indicator compression bandages and non-adherent pads
Designed for effective treatment in outdoor environments
Whether you're enjoying the great outdoors, working on your property, or out on our waterways, having a kit on hand is a simple step that makes a big difference.
Learn life-saving skills with us
Want to feel confident in an emergency? Join one of our First Aid Courses to learn:
How to manage a snakebite calmly and effectively
CPR and other vital life-saving techniques
Our courses are hands-on, practical, and tailored to real-life scenarios in our region. You’ll walk away with the skills and confidence to act when it matters most.
Snakes are a natural part of our environment, and while they’re not out to get us, they do deserve respect and distance. With the right knowledge, tools, and mindset, you can enjoy spring with confidence and peace of mind.
Stay safe, stay prepared, and explore boldly.