A slithery experience…
Don't panic if you're bitten - most snake bites are not fatal.
ANITA Hulley presented a very informative talk on snakes to the women at Stonecroft Ministries’ monthly tea at Port Shepstone Country Club last Friday.
She reminded everyone not to kill snakes, as they play a very important role in the environment by keeping the pest population down.
“There are between 130 and 160 different species of snake in South Africa. Most of them do not pose a danger to humans. However, it is not a good idea to pick them up as this is when snake bites most often occur,” said Mrs Hulley.
She enlightened guests on three venomous and common snakes found in residential areas – the black mamba, the boomslang, and the night adder.
She reminded everyone not to panic if bitten by a snake as most snake bites don’t end up being fatal.
“If you’re out in the wilderness, with no hope of paramedics, the best you can do is get as comfortable as possible and wait for the venom to leave your system. In most cases, snakes don’t inject enough venom for the bite to be fatal.
“Treat the individual symptoms that may occur, and most importantly, stay calm. Fear of snakes and the anxiety that follows after being bitten are often what leads to fatalities, since a pounding heart makes the poison spread more quickly,” added Mrs Hulley.
Local singer Brian Elgie’s songs which followed were superb and Sheryl Bradnick’s interesting life story of her journey from KZN to Egypt to Hong Kong mesmerised the audience.
“Every stage in your life should be seen as a challenge that you can handle through the knowledge you gain out of the word of God. Through Jesus Christ you can face all challenges,” said Mrs Bradnick.
The next Stonecroft Ministries meeting takes place on October 24 where the sea rescues by NSRI will be discussed. The main speaker will be Debbie Jenkins. Entry fee R25 which includes tea and refreshments. Please book with Maria at 039 6812801.
