The New Straits Times, December 18, 1995
Q: I love to go jungle trekking and camping. Sometimes, I'll go for days and weeks into the jungle. Recently, a friend of mine was bitten by a pit viper. He was lucky as it was only a small bite and we manage to take him to the nearest hospital for treatment. Could you give me tips on how to avoid snakebites?
A: Snakes do not normally attack or bite humans. In fact, they are usually afraid of people. Unless provoked, snakes do not bite.
So, do not do this or try to catch a snake. Watch where you step or sit in snake-infested areas.
Do not poke or put your hands into places where there is a likelihood that a snake could hide.
Tall grass, thick bushes, rocky ledges, under rock piles, within cracks, trees and areas overgrown with weeds are places which should be avoided.
Also avoid reaching into holes or hidden ledges.
If you have to, use a stick to check the presence of snakes.
If you are suddenly confronted by a snake, do not run.
Instead, stand still and let the snake move off. In most circumstances, snakes will back away slowly.
Wear protective clothing: leather shoes or boots that reach up to the knee, gloves, trousers, slacks, sleeved shirts as well as hats of reasonable thickness.
These outfits offer reasonably good protection against snakebites.
There are some kinds of special clothing for those who are at risk by virtue of their occupations.
There are knee-high rubber or leather boots or canvas brush pants made form laminated wire mesh that are snake-proof.
Many of the venomous snakes are active at night, being most active on warmer nights rather than cool ones.
Thus, you should take extra precautions when walking at night. Never step out barefooted and avoid walking in the dark. Use a torch if you have to.
If you are camping, make sure that the are around the camp is clear of tall grass, piles of rubbish, rock etc.
As far as possible, do not sleep outside your tent.
Our body can generate heat and snakes, particularly vipers, have a sensory organ that is sensitive to heat.
This would attract the snake to you.
Also make sure you dispose of uneaten food properly.
If not, you are likely to attract rats which in turn will invite snakes.
To kill a snake, you should use a long stick, preferably a bamboo stick.
The way to kill it is by delivering a sharp blow directly to the area behind the snake's head.
Do not crush the head of the snake because some snakes are identified by the shape of their head.
You should handle the dead snake carefully.
Do not tease others with it.
It might still be alive and even when dead, the head has the capacity to inject venom up to an hour after death.
