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Photo: Australian Reptile Park<\/p>\nA free, interactive resource that offers step-by-step first aid instructions to combat snake and spider wounds is now available for Hunter residents.<\/p>\n
The launch of the new Bites & Stings app, a joint project between the Australian Reptile Park, antivenom manufacturer CSL Seqirus and St John Ambulance NSW, coincided this week with the start of the nation\u2019s high-risk season for venomous incidents.<\/p>\n
So, being prepared and knowing how to respond to such occurrences can be the difference between life and death.<\/p>\n
The app also includes safety tips and information about Australia\u2019s most dangerous creatures.<\/p>\n
Photo: Australian Reptile Park<\/p>\n
Currently, the Australian Reptile Park plays a crucial role in keeping everyone safe through its world-renowned antivenom program, where venom collected from snakes and spiders is supplied to CSL Seqirus.<\/p>\n
This partnership continues to be a cornerstone of national public health.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cOur team works every day with some of the world\u2019s most venomous animals to produce the raw venom that becomes life-saving antivenom,\u201d director Tim Faulkner said.<\/p>\n
\u201cSo, now, it\u2019s a timely reminder of how important that work is and how essential it is for Australians to know what to do in an emergency.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Bites & Stings app is another tool that can genuinely help save lives.\u201d<\/p>\n
St John Ambulance NSW CEO Dominic Teakle explained native wildlife was more active during summer.<\/p>\n
\u201cMost encounters are harmless,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cHowever, if a bite or sting does happen, those first few moments matter.<\/p>\n
\u201cFirst aid saves lives.<\/p>\n
\u201cKnowing the basics and feeling confident to act, applying a pressure bandage, calling Triple Zero and using tools like the Bites & Stings app\u00a0is vital to keeping you, your family and your community safe.\u201d<\/p>\n
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Photo: Australian Reptile Park<\/p>\n
CSL Seqirus director vaccines and biosecurity Dr Jules Bayliss said it now meant people had a pocket first-aid guide handy on their phone.<\/p>\n
\u201cSummer is a fantastic time to get out and explore the beautiful natural environment and unique flora and fauna we have here in Australia,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cBut, more than 1,600 people are hospitalised due to venomous bites or stings every year.<\/p>\n
\u201cSo, it\u2019s important they know how to enjoy the outdoors safely.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe manufacture all of Australia\u2019s antivenoms for venomous snakes, spiders and marine creatures, thanks to raw venom collected by our partners like the Australian Reptile Park.<\/p>\n
\u201cHowever, these are products we hope don\u2019t get used because we want people to avoid a bite or sting in the first place.\u201d<\/p>\n
Tips for a safe and enjoyable summer\u00a0<\/p>\n
Residents should:\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
Download the free Australian Bites and Stings App to have up-to-date first aid information on hand if bites or stings do occurDress and pack a bag for the bush or the beach with an in-date first aid kit, snake bite kit, mobile phone, and food and waterWear long pants, enclosed shoes and stay on the trailsNever touch wild animals, get too close or put your limbs in places where you\u00a0can\u2019t seeWear heavy duty gloves and be careful when lifting logs, rocks, or debris, which may be home to snakes and spiders<\/p>\n
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