What to Do If You’ve Been Bitten by a Snake- A Comprehensive Guide
Being bitten by a snake is something most people never expect to face, yet in Australia it remains a real risk — especially in Sydney, where both bushland and urban environments are home to a variety of snakes. Knowing what to do if bitten by a snake is critical to saving your life, or the life of a loved one, before professional medical help arrives.
Every year in Australia, around 3,000 snake bites are reported. Thanks to quick action and modern medicine, deaths are rare, but the danger is still very real. In this guide, you’ll learn how to respond if you’re bitten by a snake, common mistakes to avoid, how to identify dangerous species in Sydney, and why it’s important to call a professional Sydney snake catcher when you spot one on your property.
Bitten by a Snake? Stay Calm and Still
After a bite, your body’s natural response may be fear or panic. However, panicking causes your heart to beat faster, circulating venom through your lymphatic system more quickly. The best thing you can do is remain calm and as still as possible. This helps keep the venom localised near the bite site for longer, buying you more time to get medical help.
If someone else is with you, instruct them to make the emergency call while you remain completely still. If you’re alone, call Triple Zero (000) immediately without walking around more than necessary.
First Aid Steps If Bitten by a Snake
Snake bite first aid is simple but highly effective. The technique most recommended in Australia is the Pressure Immobilisation Technique (PIT), designed to slow the spread of venom.
Further reading: St John Ambulance – Snake Bite First Aid and NSW Health – Snake Bites.
Things You Shouldn’t Do After Being Bitten by a Snake
When you’ve been bitten by a snake, you might feel the urge to try home remedies or what you’ve seen in movies. Unfortunately, many of these methods can make the situation much worse.
Do:
Don’t:
Myth Busted: You don’t need to know the snake species to receive the right antivenom. Medical staff can test the venom left at the bite site.
How to Identify the Snake That Bit You
While you should never try to capture a snake after a bite, being familiar with the common snakes in Sydney can help you understand the risks.
For a comprehensive guide, visit: our Ultimate Snake Identification Guide.
“While bites from these types of creatures are rare, it’s important to know what to do and act quickly, as it could just save your life or the life of a friend or loved one.”
— Genevieve Adamo, Senior Poisons Specialist, NSW Poisons Information Centre
Bitten by a Snake in Sydney? When to Call a Snake Catcher
If you see a snake on your property, you may be tempted to deal with it yourself. This is never safe. Licensed snake catchers have the experience and training to handle these animals without risk to you, your family, or the snake.
Our team at Sydney Snakes and Wildlife Removal is available 24/7 for emergency callouts and advice.
FAQ: What Happens If You’re Bitten by a Snake?
How long do I have after a snake bite?
This depends on the species and amount of venom injected. Some bites can become critical in less than 30 minutes, while others progress more slowly. Always call 000 immediately.
Can I tell if a bite is venomous?
No. Some venomous bites are painless or leave barely visible marks. Assume every bite is dangerous and follow the correct first aid steps.
Should I try to suck out the venom?
No. This is an old myth that is both ineffective and dangerous. The only proven method is the pressure immobilisation technique combined with urgent medical help.
Can pets survive snake bites?
Yes, but survival depends on how quickly you get them to a vet. Many veterinary clinics in Sydney stock antivenom for dogs and cats. If your pet has been bitten, treat it as an emergency.
What if I don’t know what snake bit me?
You don’t need to know. Paramedics and hospitals can identify the venom through a swab from the bite site and administer the correct antivenom.
Final Advice If You’ve Been Bitten by a Snake
While being bitten by a snake can be terrifying, preparation and knowledge are your best defences. Remember to stay calm, call 000 immediately, apply a pressure immobilisation bandage, and wait for professional help. Never take risks trying to catch or kill the snake.
At Sydney Snakes and Wildlife Removal, we provide expert, safe, and humane snake catching services across Sydney. Save our number so you can reach us quickly in an emergency.
Call Sydney Snakes and Wildlife Removal – Your trusted snake catcher, available 24/7.