Snake bites are a serious concern for travellers in Western Australia‘s remote regions. Home to some of the world’s most venomous snakes, WA’s outback poses unique challenges due to its isolation and limited access to medical care. Key points to know:
- Australia is home to 20 of the 25 most venomous snake species, several of which are found in WA, including the Western Brown Snake, Coastal Taipan, Tiger Snake, and Mulga Snake.
- 57% of snake bites occur in rural areas, with nearly half of fatal cases happening before victims reach a hospital.
- Preparation and prevention are critical: Wear protective clothing, avoid dense vegetation, and always carry a snake bite first aid kit.
- First aid essentials: Use a pressure immobilisation bandage, keep the victim still, and call for emergency help immediately. Avoid washing the bite or using a tourniquet.
- Remote travel challenges: Poor mobile coverage and long evacuation times make equipment like satellite phones and locator beacons indispensable.
Staying informed, equipped, and cautious can significantly reduce risks while travelling in WA’s outback.
How to treat a snake bite | St John WA | First Aid Facts
Snake Bite Risks in Western Australia
Travelling off-grid in Western Australia comes with its own set of challenges, particularly the heightened risk of snake bites. The state’s remote landscapes, variety of venomous snakes, and tough environmental conditions make it essential to prepare thoroughly before setting out.
Dangerous Snake Species in WA Outback
Western Australia is home to some of the world’s most venomous snakes. Roughly a third of Australian snake species are dangerously venomous, and several of these can be found in WA’s outback. Out of the 213 snake species in Australia, including 109 terrestrial and 30 marine venomous types, a number pose a serious threat to those exploring the region.
The Western Brown Snake (Pseudonaja nuchalis) is commonly found in dry grasslands and woodlands. Known for its quick strikes and defensive nature, it’s a snake to watch out for in these areas.
In northern coastal areas, the Coastal Taipan (Oxyuranus scutellatus) is a significant concern. These slender snakes are highly nervous and can attack when provoked, often inhabiting popular camping and fishing spots.
The Tiger Snake (Notechis scutatus) is another species frequently encountered in WA’s coastal regions. Active during summer, especially near water sources, these snakes are highly accurate when striking.
In southern WA, the Common Death Adder (Acanthophis antarcticus) can be found lurking in bushland. Its ambush hunting style and stout, triangular body increase the likelihood of accidental encounters.
The Mulga Snake (Pseudechis australis), one of Australia’s largest venomous snakes, is particularly dangerous. It delivers the highest venom output of any Australian snake and is most active during the hot summer months in dry, remote areas.
Lastly, the Dugite (Pseudonaja affinis) is becoming more common in both urban and rural areas. With its glossy brown, green, or grey colouring, this adaptable snake is being encountered more frequently across the state.
"Most bites occur when people are trying to kill a snake or show off." – Associate Professor Bryan Fry, Herpetologist and Venom Expert, University of Queensland
Being familiar with these species and their behaviours can help travellers anticipate where and when they might encounter them.
When and Where Snake Encounters Happen
Snakes in Australia are most active from September to April, which aligns with the warmer months when many people venture into the outback. However, in Western Australia’s warm climate, snakes can remain active throughout the year.
During the hotter months, snakes are particularly active, especially in the peak heat of summer. In contrast, they retreat underground during winter, keeping their body temperature stable at around 25°C, and emerge when temperatures rise to hunt and warm themselves.
Location is another key factor in snake encounters. Snakes are often seen crossing roads, basking in open areas, or sheltering near homes. For off-grid travellers, campsites near buildings, sheds, or abandoned structures are particularly risky. Bushland areas, with their dense vegetation, rocky outcrops, and fallen logs, are also prime snake habitats.
Water sources are especially hazardous. Many species, such as Tiger Snakes, are drawn to wetlands and coastal paths during summer. Since water is essential for off-grid travellers, it’s often unavoidable to camp or travel near these snake habitats.
These environmental factors make WA’s wilderness both captivating and potentially dangerous for adventurers.
Challenges for Off-Grid Travellers
The isolation that makes WA’s outback so enticing also creates serious challenges when it comes to managing snake bites. Remote travellers often face limited medical access, delayed emergency response times, and unreliable communication due to poor mobile coverage. What might be a manageable situation in an urban setting can quickly escalate in the outback.
Self-reliance becomes critical in these circumstances. Unlike in cities, where help might arrive in minutes, travellers in remote areas could be hours – or even days – away from medical assistance. This makes prevention and preparation absolutely essential.
Identifying the snake is crucial for administering the correct antivenin, but this can be difficult in stressful situations, especially with poor lighting or limited knowledge about the snake species.
Time is a critical factor. While urban snake bite victims can often reach a hospital within an hour, those in remote areas face much longer evacuation times. Weather conditions, vehicle breakdowns, and vast distances can all delay treatment, increasing the severity of the situation.
Equipment failure is another concern. Satellite phones, GPS devices, and vehicles are vital for safety in remote areas, but they can malfunction or become damaged. To manage these risks, travellers need backup systems and detailed emergency plans. This level of preparedness is essential for navigating the unique dangers posed by snake encounters in WA’s outback.
How to Prevent Snake Bites While Travelling Off-Grid
When venturing off-grid, taking precautions against snake bites is crucial – especially in Australia, home to 21 of the world’s 25 most venomous snakes. A few simple strategies can go a long way in keeping you safe.
Personal Safety Tips
Dressing appropriately is your first line of defence. Wear long pants, sturdy boots, and snake gaiters since most snake bites occur on the hands and feet. When exploring, use a stick or pole to probe through vegetation and make noise – stomping or talking can help alert snakes to your presence and give them time to move away.
At night, always use a torch to avoid accidentally stepping on or startling a snake. Stick to marked paths and avoid areas with tall grass, rock piles, or crevices where snakes are likely to hide. If you do encounter a snake, resist the urge to harm it – snakes are protected under Australian law. Instead, back away slowly and calmly to avoid provoking a defensive reaction.
Once you’re mindful of personal safety, it’s time to focus on creating a secure campsite.
Safe Campsite Practices
Choose a campsite that’s open and clear, away from tall grass, dense vegetation, and rocky areas where snakes might seek shelter. Avoid setting up near fallen logs or thick shrubs.
Keep your tent zipped and vehicle doors closed to prevent snakes from sneaking in. Store food in sealed containers and dispose of scraps properly to avoid attracting rodents, which in turn can draw snakes. Keep your gear off the ground – items like sleeping bags and clothing should be elevated rather than left exposed.
With these campsite precautions in place, the next step is thorough preparation for your journey.
Travel Preparation and Emergency Planning
Before heading off-grid, let someone know your planned route, destination, and expected return time. Equip yourself with emergency communication tools like a satellite phone or personal locator beacon, especially if you’ll be in areas without mobile coverage.
Learn snake bite first aid – it could save a life. Australian reptile expert Bob Cooper highlights the importance of the pressure and immobilisation technique (PIT) for treating venomous bites:
"I believe the pressure and immobilisation technique (PIT) is the most effective first-aid treatment for all venomous land and sea snake bites in Australia and other elapid snakes worldwide. To my knowledge there have been no reported deaths once this bandaging has been applied."
Carry a snake bite kit with compression bandages as part of your emergency supplies. While most snake bites are defensive and don’t require anti-venom, having the right first aid tools on hand is essential.
Lastly, ensure your vehicle is well-equipped for remote travel. Companies like OffGrid Campers WA offer vehicles with Starlink connectivity, solar power, and 24/7 roadside assistance – features that can provide peace of mind when you’re far from help.
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Snake Bite First Aid and Emergency Response
When it comes to snake bites, staying calm and acting quickly can make all the difference. Panic only speeds up the spread of venom, so keeping movement to a minimum is critical.
First Aid Steps
The first step is to keep the victim as still and calm as possible. Movement increases the spread of venom, so have them lie down and avoid unnecessary activity.
If the bite is from an Australian venomous snake, apply a pressure immobilisation bandage. Wrap the bandage firmly around the bite site – tight enough to support like a sprained ankle but not so tight that it cuts off circulation. Extend the bandage up the limb and use a splint to restrict movement.
Mark the bite site with a pen or marker, circling the area and noting the time. Recheck and mark any swelling or pain progression every 30 minutes. This information is vital for medical professionals.
Call 000 or 112 immediately for assistance. If you’re in an area with poor mobile reception, use a satellite device. The Royal Flying Doctor Service highlights the importance of acting fast:
"Snakebite first aid can be very effective if done quickly. Bandage and immobilise the bite area and dial 000 for help immediately. In areas with poor mobile reception, dial 112."
Do not wash the bite site, as venom residue on the skin can help identify the snake. Avoid cutting the wound, sucking out the venom, or using a tourniquet – these actions can worsen the situation.
Keep an eye out for allergic reactions. Signs of anaphylaxis include facial swelling, difficulty breathing, and hives. If you have an EpiPen, use it immediately if these symptoms occur.
In remote locations where emergency services may take longer to arrive, additional steps may be necessary.
Remote Location Considerations
Dealing with a snake bite in a remote area adds an extra layer of difficulty. Standard emergency calls may not work in these locations, so having alternative communication tools is essential. Satellite devices are a reliable option when mobile reception fails.
If you have a personal locator beacon or satellite messenger, activate it immediately. These devices can alert emergency services even in the most isolated areas.
Hamish Bradley, an Adjunct Lecturer and Aeromedical Retrieval Specialist at The University of Western Australia, underscores the seriousness of remote snake bites:
"Snake bite should always be treated as a life-threatening emergency, and if you are bitten in rural or remote Australia, you will often receive an air medical emergency pick up to a regional or metropolitan hospital for advanced care."
Be prepared for a potentially long wait, as emergency evacuations from remote areas can take hours. Keep the pressure bandage and immobilisation in place until help arrives. If you’re travelling with OffGrid Campers WA, use the vehicle’s Starlink connectivity to stay in touch with emergency services and provide updates on the victim’s condition.
For pain relief, stick to paracetamol and avoid NSAIDs like aspirin or ibuprofen, as they can interfere with blood clotting.
It’s worth noting that venom is not successfully released in over 90% of snake bite cases. In Australia, snake bites result in 1 to 4 deaths annually, with brown snakes accounting for about one-third of hospital visits for snake bites.
Safety Equipment for Outback Travel
When you’re in the middle of nowhere, your gear becomes your lifeline. This is especially true in Western Australia’s remote outback, where being prepared can mean the difference between life and death. With up to 4,000 Australians bitten by snakes annually and 20 of the world’s 25 most venomous snakes calling Australia home, preparation isn’t optional – it’s critical.
Required Safety Equipment
A snake bite kit is a must-have for any outback adventure. A good kit should include pressure immobilisation bandages with indicators, triangular bandages for support, nitrile gloves, an emergency blanket, and clear instructions. Kits vary in price, but investing in a reliable one is worth it.
Darren P., who survived a snake bite, underscores the importance of having the right gear:
"Being one of the statistically unlucky ones to have been on the receiving end of a snake bite, I can tell you now that fast response and having the right kit on hand make all the difference."
For added protection, snake gaiters are essential, especially for your legs, which are the most common bite target. The Clogger SnakeSafe Snake Gaiters, priced at $155.00, are a solid choice for serious outback explorers. Combine these with long pants and sturdy boots for complete lower body protection.
When mobile reception is unreliable, communication devices like satellite phones or personal locator beacons are indispensable. These tools ensure you can call for help no matter where you are. Keep your snake bite kit and emergency supplies in a spot that’s easy to access from either side of your vehicle.
These precautions, combined with first aid knowledge, create a solid safety net for remote travel.
Well-Equipped Vehicle Benefits
A well-prepared vehicle can significantly improve safety in the outback. Vehicles from OffGrid Campers WA offer consistent connectivity, power, and onboard amenities to keep your emergency gear ready for use. With Starlink internet connectivity, you’ll have reliable communication even in areas where mobile networks fail. This can be a lifeline when waiting for emergency services in isolated areas.
Lauren C., who used a high-quality snake bite kit, shared her experience:
"I just wanted to say how amazing your kits are… the hospital said it was the best snakebite bandage they had ever seen, he loved the rectangular pressure indicators."
OffGrid Campers WA vehicles also come equipped with essential camping gear, ensuring you have shelter, cooking facilities, and comfort items during emergencies. Considering that 57% of snakebites occur in regional areas, and nearly half of fatal bites result in death before reaching a hospital, having a mobile base camp could save lives.
Rooftop tents provide a safe, elevated sleeping area, reducing the risk of ground-level snake encounters. Meanwhile, the comprehensive camp kitchen setups allow you to prepare meals without unnecessary ground contact. Add to that the vehicles’ 24/7 roadside assistance, and you’ve got an extra layer of security.
It’s vital that everyone in your group knows where the safety equipment is stored and how to use it. With about 3,000 snakebites happening in Australia each year, being prepared isn’t just smart – it’s essential for staying safe in the outback.
Conclusion
Exploring WA’s outback comes with its share of risks, particularly the potential for snake bites. With Australia home to 20 of the world’s 25 most venomous snakes, including brown snakes responsible for about one-third of hospital visits, preparation is non-negotiable. While only one to four deaths occur annually due to snake bites, and up to half of venomous bites are dry, these statistics highlight the importance of being well-prepared.
Preventive measures are your first line of defence. Wearing protective gear like thick, ankle-high boots and long pants can significantly reduce the risk of bites. Choosing campsites carefully – avoiding areas with dense vegetation or those attracting prey – further minimises encounters. Keep in mind that warmer months see an uptick in snake activity, so plan your routes and activities accordingly.
Still, no amount of prevention can guarantee complete safety, so knowing how to respond is just as critical. If a snake bite occurs, apply a pressure immobilisation bandage, keep the victim as still as possible, and contact emergency services immediately. As healthdirect emphasises, "All snake bites must be treated as potentially life-threatening". Regularly updating your first aid skills, ideally every three years, ensures you’re equipped to act in those crucial moments.
Equipping yourself with the right tools and transport can make all the difference in remote areas. Vehicles like those from OffGrid Campers WA, featuring Starlink connectivity and comprehensive safety kits, offer peace of mind and practical solutions for emergencies.
FAQs
What should I do immediately if bitten by a snake in the WA outback?
If you’re bitten by a snake in the Western Australian outback, it’s important to stay calm and take these essential steps:
- Call 000 immediately to get professional medical help on the way.
- Keep the bitten limb as still as possible and below heart level. This can help slow the spread of venom.
- Use a broad pressure bandage to wrap the bite site and the limb firmly. Make sure the bandage is snug but not so tight that it stops circulation.
- Avoid actions like sucking out the venom, cutting into the wound, or applying ice, as these can cause more harm than good.
While waiting for medical assistance, try to keep the person still and calm. Limiting movement is key to preventing the venom from spreading more quickly.
What are the best ways to stay connected in remote areas with limited mobile reception?
Staying connected in the remote stretches of Western Australia can be tough, thanks to limited mobile coverage. To ensure dependable communication, you might want to look into a satellite phone or a UHF radio – both function without relying on mobile networks.
Another option is a mobile signal booster, which can help strengthen reception in areas where the signal is weak. If you’re heading off the grid, it’s smart to plan ahead and let someone know your travel plans. This extra step can be a lifesaver in case of emergencies.
How can I reduce the risk of snake encounters when setting up camp in the WA outback?
To reduce the chances of encountering snakes, pick a campsite in an open area with short grass, steering clear of rocks, logs, or thick vegetation – common hiding spots for snakes. Keep the area around your campsite clean by clearing away debris, piles of leaves, or stacked wood, as these can attract both snakes and their prey. Always keep your tent zipped up when you’re not inside, and make sure not to leave food or scraps lying around, as this can lure in rodents, which may then attract snakes.
Stay vigilant, especially at night or when walking through bushland. Wear long pants and enclosed shoes for added protection, and use a torch or headlamp after dark to spot any potential dangers. Taking these steps can help ensure a safer and more enjoyable camping trip in the WA outback.
