Prevention of Snakebite

Prevention of Snakebite

·            Do wear shoes (or preferably leather boots and long trousers) when walking outdoors amid thick undergrowth or long grass.

·            Do carry an electric torch or flashlight when walking outdoors at night.

·            Do take care when collecting firewood, or moving logs, rocks, boxes, or debris which are likely hiding places for a snake.

·            Do take care when climbing rocks or trees with dense foliage, or swimming in lakes or rivers with lots of weeds.

·            Do use repellants in basements, attics and storerooms to ward off rodents and snakes (e.g. DDT, naphthalene, pyrethroids, formaldehyde fumigants, etc.).

·            Do not go near a snake even if it appears inactive or harm-less. Slip away quietly. Do not make sudden movements.

·            Do not handle a snake even if it appears dead. Some snakes pretend to be dead to avoid attack.

·            Do not keep venomous snakes as pets or performing animals.

·            Do not sleep on the ground at night. You may wake up with a venomous snake lying cosily next to you, attracted by your body warmth.

·            Do not wade in the sea, especially in sand, or near coral reefs.