Most common wildlife species that can cause mishaps in Australia and how to deal with any related incidents.
Outdoor activities like sports, nature walks, and excursions are essential to school life in Australia, providing students with fresh air, exercise, and hands-on learning experiences. However, Australia’s diverse wildlife can present unique risks that students and educators should be aware of when venturing outside. Knowing how to identify potential dangers and respond to wildlife-related accidents, from snakes to spiders to swooping birds.
Partnering with Student Safe AU is an intelligent choice for schools that want to prioritise safety. They’re the top bus hire provider for education and safety and school transport management for independent Australian schools, ensuring safety is never compromised during school outings.
Key Wildlife to Watch Out for During School Activities
Australia is famous for its unique fauna, but some species can pose risks, especially when children are engaged in outdoor activities. Here are some of the most important creatures to know about and what to do in case of wildlife-related accidents.
1. Snakes
Australia is home to some of the world’s most venomous snakes, including the eastern brown, tiger, and red-bellied black snakes. These reptiles are more active during warmer months and can sometimes be found in bushy areas or on playing fields.
What to do if a student is bitten: If a snake bite occurs, remain calm. Keep the affected limb immobilised and apply a pressure bandage to slow the spread of venom. Call emergency services immediately. Under no circumstances should the student be allowed to walk or run, as this speeds up venom circulation. Wildlife-related accidents involving snakes require urgent medical attention.
2. Spiders
While not all Australian spiders are dangerous, some, like the funnel-web and redback spiders, can deliver venomous bites that require medical attention. These spiders are commonly found in gardens, bushes, or under equipment, so regular checks of outdoor areas are essential.
- What to do if a student is bitten: If bitten by a funnel-web spider, apply a pressure bandage to the affected area and immobilise the limb, similarly to snake bite treatment. For redback spider bites, applying ice can help with the pain. Medical attention should be sought immediately for any spider bite.
3. Bees and Wasps
Bee and wasp stings are common, especially during sports activities where children may disturb hives or nests without realising it. For most students, stings cause mild swelling and discomfort. However, for those with allergies, a sting can trigger anaphylaxis, which is life-threatening.
- What to do if a student is stung: For most stings, remove the stinger, apply ice, and monitor the student for any signs of an allergic reaction. In the case of anaphylaxis, administer an EpiPen if available and call emergency services immediately. Quick action is essential to avoid the worst outcomes in wildlife-related accidents involving bees or wasps.
4. Swooping Birds
In the spring, magpies and other birds can become highly territorial and are known to swoop at passersby. This can be especially alarming for children playing outdoors, causing panic or even falls.
- What to do if a student is swooped: While being swooped is rarely harmful, it’s essential to remain calm and avoid running. Educators should advise students to wear hats and glasses during peak swooping season. If a student falls or sustains any injury, provide appropriate first aid and assess the situation carefully to avoid escalating the incident.
5. Ticks
Ticks, especially paralysis ticks, can pose a serious risk to students engaging in outdoor activities in bushy or grassy areas. They attach themselves to the skin and can cause allergic reactions or, in rare cases, paralysis if not removed quickly.
What to do if a tick is found on a student: If it is discovered, it should be removed carefully using fine-tipped tweezers or specialised tick-removal tools. Pull the tick out slowly and steadily. If the student shows any signs of illness, seek medical advice immediately.
Handling Wildlife-Related Accidents: Key Steps
When accidents involving wildlife occur during school activities, acting quickly and effectively can prevent situations from worsening. Here are the steps all educators and coordinators should be familiar with:
- Stay calm and assess the situation: Keeping the student and others calm is essential to ensuring treatment begins quickly and safely.
- Immobilise and apply first aid: For snake or spider bites, immobilise the affected area and apply a pressure bandage. For stings and bites, apply ice or administer antihistamines if necessary.
- Seek professional medical help: For all wildlife-related accidents, calling emergency services or transporting the affected student to a hospital as quickly as possible is important. Time is critical, especially for venomous bites or allergic reactions.
- Monitor the student: Even after treatment, continue to observe the student for any delayed reactions or symptoms.
Why Schools Trust Student Safe AU for School Trip Safety
Managing the risks associated with wildlife during outdoor activities is critical to ensuring student safety. But there’s also the matter of school transportation and logistics regarding school trips. That’s where Student Safe AU comes in.
With Student Safe AU, schools can focus on delivering enriching outdoor experiences while knowing that every aspect of student transport and school trip safety is under control. From real-time updates on travel routes to providing well-trained personnel, we ensure that your school trips run smoothly and safely, even in the unpredictable Australian outdoors.
Conclusion
Outdoor activities are an exciting part of school life, but it’s essential to be aware of potential wildlife risks and be prepared for wildlife-related accidents. With the proper knowledge, first aid skills, and support from services like Student Safe AU, educators can ensure students enjoy their time outdoors safely and confidently.
Educators can minimise risks and maximise the fun and educational value of outdoor activities by taking a proactive approach to school trip safety.