Snakebite guide for Bazley: Prevention, symptoms & emergency steps
Snake bites are rare, but with increased outdoor activity over the holidays, it’s important to know how to prevent encounters — and what to do if one happens.
Avoiding Snake Encounters
The best protection is prevention. Please keep the following in mind:
- Do not handle snakes — even small ones or those that appear dead.
- Do not attempt to catch or kill a snake.
- Do not walk barefoot, especially in long grass or bushy areas.
- Always use a torch at night and wear shoes/boots and long trousers when walking in the bush.
If you spot a snake on your property and need it safely removed, Bazley has a local snake catcher:
📞 Rhys Jones — 078 381 6526 (Call-out fee: R350)
Please do not try to remove or kill the snake yourself — this is when most bites occur.
Recognising Symptoms of a Snakebite
If bitten, some of the following symptoms may occur:
- Immediate burning pain followed by swelling
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Nausea
- Bleeding from the nose
- Signs of shock
Seek urgent medical help at the first sign of any of these symptoms.
The African Snakebite Institute has developed a range of ASI Snake Booklets to help with easy and accurate snake identification.
Inside each booklet, you’ll find:
– Snakes commonly found in Durban
– How to identify them
– Essential snakebite first-aid information
👉 Click here to download the Common Snakes of Durban FREE PDF booklet.
You can also 👉 click here to download their free app, which includes:
– Snakebite first aid guidance
– Snake identification tools
– Snake removal information
– Free snake posters
And more
What to do immediately after a snakebite
- Keep the person calm and still
Movement increases the spread of venom. Help the person sit or lie down comfortably.
2. Call for urgent medical help
In Bazley, contact:
📞 Bazley Emergency WhatsApp Group
📞 Nearest ambulance / private emergency service
📞 Hospital / ER ahead of arrival
3. Keep the limb still — avoid pressure bandaging
While pressure bandaging is often recommended, the Institute advises not to apply a pressure bandage or splint unless a qualified person is immediately available and medical help is more than two hours away.
Rather keep the limb as still as possible and focus on getting the person to hospital quickly.
4. Remove tight clothing, jewellery or watches
Swelling can occur rapidly.
5. Do NOT
❌ Cut the wound
❌ Suck out venom
❌ Apply ice
❌ Wash the bite (venom traces aid identification)
❌ Give alcohol or painkillers
❌ Chase or kill the snake
6. If safe, note what the snake looked like
A distant photo can help professionals — but never risk another bite.
7. Get to medical care immediately
Even non-venomous bites can become infected, and venomous bites require urgent treatment and antivenom available only at hospitals.
Important Notes
Call ahead to confirm whether antivenom is available before driving. Stocks differ between facilities and can change daily.
Always alert the Bazley Emergency WhatsApp Group so responders can assist with transport or support.
In severe cases (e.g., suspected mamba or puff adder bite), time is critical — the closest appropriate hospital is the best first step.
Netcare Kingsway Hospital – Amanzimtoti (Private)
Distance from Bazley: ±35–40 minutes
Why contact: Well-equipped private ER; antivenom availability can vary, but they are experienced with bites.
Tel: 031 904 7000
GJ Crookes Hospital – Scottburgh (Government)
Distance from Bazley: ±20–25 minutes
Why contact: Closest emergency department; stabilisation and assessment.
