However, Australian snakebite first-aid guidance advises against washing or cleaning the bite site.
Traces of venom may remain on the skin and can sometimes assist clinical identification processes.
Attempting to suck venom from the wound is also ineffective.
Venom does not remain conveniently concentrated at the surface where it can be removed by suction.
Trying to suck it out wastes valuable time and may introduce further injury or contamination.
Commercial suction devices should not be relied upon as snakebite treatment.
Do not apply ice, chemicals, or unproven traditional remedies.
These methods do not replace evidence-based first aid and urgent medical assessment.
The safest approach is to leave the wound undisturbed, apply recommended pressure immobilisation when appropriate, and arrange medical care.
Rule 6: DON'T Catch, Kill, or Approach the Snake
After a bite, people may feel compelled to identify the snake.
Some believe that catching or killing it is essential so doctors can determine the correct treatment.
