Snakebite!

Snake expert and author JOHAN MARAIS explains what to do if bitten by a snake while trail running.

- JOHAN MARAIS

With around 175 different snake species in southern Africa, there is a real chance that trail runners may encounter them.

While very few fatal snakebites are recorded in South Africa – around 12 per year – it is important to reduce the risk of a snakebite and to know what to do if someone is bitten.

Nine out of ten serious snakebites in Southern Africa result in cytotoxic symptoms – pain, gradual swelling, blistering and, in some instances, tissue damage.

Most of our fatal bites are from Black Mamba and Cape Cobra envenomation. The venom of these snakes is predominantly neurotoxic, causing progressive weakness that ultimately compromises breathing.

Avoid the bite

Stay on footpaths, watch where you are walking, step onto rocks and logs. Be careful where you put your hands, either when stopping for a rest or when gripping onto rocks to climb up or down inclines.

The majority of snakebites are well below the knee and wearing proper snake gaiters will provide good protection against most snakebites. Modern snake gaiters are light (around 400 grams a pair), flexible, and comfortable, even on long hikes.

Be prepared

Be prepared for emergencies when planning a hike, make sure you have the necessary emergency numbers on your cell phone. Remember that the international emergency number 112 works even if you do not have airtime or signal.