Free App download – what to do when a snake bites you
By using this App in an emergency, you can help the situation much faster than before.
First aid for a snakebite is problematic, largely because of all the myths and incorrect or outdated information that does the rounds.
While sound advice is given in books like Snakes and Snakebite in Southern Africa, few people have access to such publications.
In light of the above, internationally renowned herpetologist and author Johan Marais of the African Snakebite Institute put together a free App that covers the essentials of first aid treatment for snakebite. The advice is concise, accurate and simple to follow and understand. It also includes emergency contact numbers for snakebite incidents.
The medical treatment of snakebite is also covered and gives medical doctors quick and easy access to the published snakebite treatment protocols. These publications cover the diagnosis and treatment of snakebite including the use of antivenom.
For unwanted snakes in houses, gardens and business premises, the App lists over 450 snake removers country-wide, divided into specific areas. To search and find a snake remover in your area is incredibly simple.
Should anyone encounter a snake and need it identified, a feature allows anyone to quickly submit a photograph for positive identification.
Lastly, the App also has profiles of common snakes in Southern Africa – each profile has four colour photographs, a distribution map and a short section on the snake species to assist with identification.
This free App had over 2 000 downloads in the first 48 hours. To download the App, please go to https://www.africansnakebiteinstitute.com/app.
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at krugersdorpnews@caxton.co.za (remember to include your contact details) or phone us on 011 955 1130.
For free daily local news on the West Rand, also visit our sister newspaper websites
Remember to visit our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages to let your voice be heard!
