Snakes, spiders and bluebottles

Last updated: 01 November 2007

Stings and bites

NSW Health warns families to be alert to the risks of stings and bites from snakes, spiders and bluebottles this summer.

People living in bushfire danger areas need to be especially wary of snakes and spiders as in the event of a fire, they may be frightened out of their natural habitat and into people's homes.

NSW Health urges families to learn how to respond to snake and spider bites quickly and properly, and to seek medical attention if they occur.

First aid for snake and spider bites

Swift administration of first aid is crucial and can help save the life of someone who has been bitten by a snake or spider.

Between October 2000 and September 2003, there were, on average, at least 7,000 visits per year to NSW Emergency Departments for bites and stings. The majority of visits occurred in the summer months, mostly in January, which alone had more than 1,000 visits on average.

The vast majority of venomous snake bites occur on the victim's arm or leg. Understanding the correct first aid is vital for treating a snake or spider bite and can some times make the difference between life and death.

First aid procedures for snake and spider bites include:

• Place a firm bandage to the limb commencing at the bite site, then going down to the fingers or toes and then up the limb to the hip or shoulder
• Keep the limb still
• Bring transport to the patient
• The patient should not attempt to walk or run
• Under no circumstances should the bandage be removed until the patient has reached hospital
• Call 000 after First Aid has been applied.

Blue bottles

The bush isn't the only place to be cautious.

Many people are stung by blue bottles at the beach as well. The treatment for these painful stings is to clear the tentacles away with water and apply a cold pack or ice for 15 minutes. The blue-ringed octopus's sting is quite dangerous because the poison may cause paralysis, so treatment in this instance is to take the patient straight to hospital.

All NSW hospitals have a comprehensive list of local species and treatment protocols.