Queensland woman bitten by eastern brown snake in bed

Australia sees around 3,000 snakebite incidents annually, with roughly 550 people requiring hospitalization and an average of two fatalities. While over half of these occur in rural areas, a surprising number happen near homes or buildings.

In remote locations, snake bites pose a significant threat due to the potential distance from medical facilities and access to antivenom. This highlights the importance of snakebite awareness and proper first-aid procedures in these areas.

A woman detailed her frightening brush with death after rolling onto one of Australia’s deadliest animals in the middle of the night.

A Queensland woman is lucky to be alive after she was bitten by a deadly snake while sleeping in rural Queensland. Kasey Leadbetter went to bed after working at a rural cattle station near Glenmorgan, west of Toowoomba, not knowing an eastern brown snake had joined her underneath the covers. She rolled over in the early hours of the morning before she was hit with a searing pain in her hand from a “very strong bite”.

“I remember jumping out of bed straight away because it gave me such a fright,” Ms Leadbetter told 9News. “My hand just felt like it was on fire and I could feel it was starting to travel up my arm .”

At first, the 21-year-old didn’t even realise it was a snake bite, something that helped her not slip into shock.

“I was very lucky and it could have gone either way, it was really touch and go for a while there,” she said.

Eastern brown snakes are the second most venomous snake in the world, causing more deaths than any other species in Australia.

“Being an alert, nervous species they often react defensively if surprised or cornered, putting on a fierce display and striking with little hesitation,” researchers at the Australian Museum say about the snake.

“…The venom contains powerful presynaptic neurotoxins, procoagulants, cardiotoxins and nephrotoxins, and successful envenomation can result in progressive paralysis and uncontrollable bleeding.”

Panicked and not fully comprehending how her life was now at risk, Ms Leadbetter immediately called her mum for help, who contacted the family she was working with on the cattle station. They leapt into action, wrapping her arm in a compression bandage and keeping her stable until paramedics arrived by helicopter to the property. She was then airlifted to Toowoomba Hospital where she was treated with lifesaving anti-venom.

After the terrifying ordeal, the 21-year-old is urging schools to teach snake bite first aid in a bid to prevent deaths.

“It has saved my life and it can save other people’s lives too,” she said.

Ms Leadbetter plans on returning to work as soon as she recovers, adding that the incident has not stopped her from loving snakes.

“Going back to work will bring out some emotion and maybe indefinitely a bit of fear, but I’m stronger than I’m stronger than that,” she said.

Courtesy of news.com.au

We live in a land where snakes abound, you don’t have to be in the bush or in the outback to have a snake encounter and my first encounter was when one slithered under the front door at my mates house in the suburbs of Melbourne. 

Of course the best way to avoid being bitten is by avoiding snakes, if you see one don’t try and catch or kill it, that’s usually the time a bite occurs. Leave them alone and generally, but not always they will do the same.

But if one does strike, assume you’ve been envenomated and take all the necessary steps to ensure you go on to live a long and healthy life by doing the right things. And this is where a snake bite kit could save your life. 

Lie or sit down with the bite area in a comfortable neutral position making sure there is no chance of being bitten again and avoiding any necessary movement.

 Apply a Pressure Bandage:

 

• Wrap a bandage firmly around the bitten limb, starting below the bite and working your way upwards.
• Extend the bandage as high as possible, ideally all the way to the groin for leg bites.
• Keep the bitten limb still and avoid removing clothing if possible.
• Aim for a tightness similar to what you would use for a sprained ankle.
• Mark the location of the bite on the bandage for reference.

 

Immobilize the Bitten Area:

• If possible, splint the bitten limb to minimize movement.
• The splint should immobilize the joints on both sides of the bite.

 

Call for Immediate Help:

• Dial emergency services: 000 in Australia
• Monitor the victim for any symptoms that may arise.
• Remember, prompt medical attention is crucial in snakebite cases.
• Remember: Applying a pressure bandage and immobilizing the bitten limb can slow the spread of venom and buy valuable time for medical treatment, especially in remote locations.

REGULATOR Snake Bite Kit: A light, compact and practical snake bite specific kit designed to be a portable injury specific module when outdoors or where snakes are an identified risk. Complete with the AeroForm Snake Bite Bandage to ensure correct pressure is applied to the affected limb.

• AEROFORM Snake Bite Bandage w/indicator 10 cm x 4.5 m x 2
• AEROBAND Calico Triangular Bandage 110cm x 110cm x 155 cm x 1
• AEROPAD Non-Adherent Dressing 5 cm x 5 cm x 1

SURVIVAL Snake Bite KIT is a comprehensive solution for handling venomous encounters with snakes, Funnel-web spiders, blue-ringed octopuses, or cone shells. Designed by both first aid and snake experts, this kit is no ordinary fare. It’s equipped with all the essentials, including the innovative SMART Bandage. This revolutionary bandage shows you the optimum tension using a pictogram, taking the guesswork out of treatment, hence the name.

• 1 x Cotton gauze swabs (3 per pack), sterile, 7.5cm x 7.5cm
• 1 x Emergency blanket, 2.1m x 1.6m in zip lock bag
• 1 x Mini black permanent marker
• 2 x Nitrile gloves
• 3 x Pressure bandages – 2 SMART Bandages, heavy duty, reusable and washable, 10cm x 2m; 1 medium weight, 10cm x 1.8m
• 1 x Snake bite instruction card, includes bite record register and CPR instruction card
• 1 x Splint, 11cm (W) x 61cm (L) 

 

By Scott Brown

If you would like more information about this topic or any others, purchase any First Aid stock or equipment, or to book a Remote Area First Aid course, please contact us on 0491 057 339 or email info@ruralandremotefirstaid.com.au

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Our goal is that all Rural Australians will have the confidence and skills to act in an emergency. We do that by partnering with those that live and work in Rural and Remote Areas so that if an emergency occurs they will get the best possible outcome for their family member, workmates and organisation.

For over 23 years Scott Brown has been training Remote Area First Aid across Australia. Having first joined Rural Ambulance Victoria in 2001 and working in the high-country in Victoria, he began teaching First Aid for Rural Ambulance Victoria. 23 years on, he works with some of Australia’s largest pastoral corporations and property managers that combined manage over 200,000 square kms of the Australian landscape.

Known for conveying detailed First Aid information in a relatable and relaxed way, Scott’s courses have become popular with Agricultural Property Managers, overseers and ringers alike. The highly practical course content ensures relevance to actual situations that are possible to encounter on a working property.

Scott continues to work with Ambulance Victoria alongside his First Aid training. 
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Tomorrow October 16th is World Restart a Heart Day, so………

Announcing the World Resus Rally, 2024! A free, global livestreamed event, with special guests, where you can find out more about sudden cardiac arrest, how to do CPR and use an AED – CALL PUSH SHOCK! Click on the link Be Part of the Movement to Save a Life to find out more! @heartfoundationau #worldresusrally2024

If someone collapsed in front of you and you couldn’t wake them up, they weren’t breathing, would you know what to do?, Sudden Cardiac Arrest doesn’t wait for a good time. It can happen to anyone, …

By Scott Brown

If you would like more information about this topic or any others, purchase any First Aid stock or equipment, or to book a Remote Area First Aid course, please contact us on 0491 057 339 or email info@ruralandremotefirstaid.com.au

Our goal is that all Rural Australians will have the confidence and skills to act in an emergency. We do that by partnering with those that live and work in Rural and Remote Areas so that if an emergency occurs they will get the best possible outcome for their family member, workmates and organisation.

For over 23 years Scott Brown has been training Remote Area First Aid across Australia. Having first joined Rural Ambulance Victoria in 2001 and working in the high-country in Victoria, he began teaching First Aid for Rural Ambulance Victoria. 23 years on, he works with some of Australia’s largest pastoral corporations and property managers that combined manage over 200,000 square kms of the Australian landscape.

Known for conveying detailed First Aid information in a relatable and relaxed way, Scott’s courses have become popular with Agricultural Property Managers, overseers and ringers alike. The highly practical course content ensures relevance to actual situations that are possible to encounter on a working property.
Scott continues to work with Ambulance Victoria alongside his First Aid training. 
For regular updates from us sign up to our list.

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What is a Defibrillator (AED)?

An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a portable electronic device that analyses the heart rhythm and can deliver an electric shock (defibrillation) to restore a normal heart rhythm in individuals experiencing sudden cardiac arrest.

When to Use a Defibrillator:

Defibrillators are most effective when used immediately following sudden cardiac arrest. Here are some signs that someone might be in cardiac arrest:

• Sudden collapse: The person falls unconscious with no apparent cause.
• Not Responding: The person makes no response to either Talk or Touch.
• No breathing: They are not breathing normally (not just shallow breaths).

How to Use a Defibrillator:

Even with no prior medical training, anyone can use an AED. Here’s a general breakdown of the steps involved:

1. Call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
2. Turn on the AED and follow the clear voice instructions. The AED will guide you through each step.
3. Place the electrode pads on the person’s bare chest as directed by the AED.
4. Step back and allow the AED to analyse the heart rhythm. Do not touch the person while the AED is analysing.
5. If a shock is advised, the AED will instruct you to press the shock button.
6. Continue CPR if instructed by the AED.

Advantages and Benefits of Defibrillators:

• Easy to Use: AEDs are designed for use by people with minimal or no medical training. The clear voice instructions guide users through the process.
• Portable and Accessible: AEDs are increasingly found in public places like workplaces, schools, airports, and shopping centers, making them readily available during emergencies.
• Increased Survival Rates: When used promptly, AEDs can significantly increase the chances of survival from sudden cardiac arrest. Studies show that defibrillation within 3-5 minutes of cardiac arrest can result in survival rates exceeding 50%.
• Peace of Mind: Having AEDs readily available in public spaces provides a sense of security and preparedness in case of emergencies.

Limitations of Defibrillators:

• Not effective for all heart conditions: Defibrillators are only effective for specific heart rhythms associated with sudden cardiac arrest.
• Early intervention is crucial: The effectiveness of AEDs significantly decreases with delayed use.

The Takeaway:

Defibrillators are powerful tools in the fight against sudden cardiac arrest. By understanding when and how to use them, you can potentially save a life.

Here are some additional tips:

• Consider taking a CPR/AED course: This training can provide valuable hands-on experience and build confidence in using an AED in an emergency situation.
• Be aware of AED locations in your community: Knowing where AEDs are located in public places you frequent can be crucial during emergencies.

Empower Yourself to Be a Lifesaver: Having an AED readily available in your workplace or even your home can make a world of difference. Visit Rural and Remote First Aid to explore their range of AEDs and other lifesaving equipment. By equipping yourself and your community, you can be prepared to respond to emergencies and potentially save a life.

By Scott Brown

If you would like more information about this topic or any others, purchase any First Aid stock or equipment, or to book a Remote Area First Aid course, please contact us on 0491 057 339 or email info@ruralandremotefirstaid.com.au

Our goal is that all Rural Australians will have the confidence and skills to act in an emergency. We do that by partnering with those that live and work in Rural and Remote Areas so that if an emergency occurs they will get the best possible outcome for their family member, workmates and organisation.

Author bio:

For over 23 years Scott Brown has been training Remote Area First Aid across Australia. Having first joined Rural Ambulance Victoria in 2001 and working in the high-country in Victoria, he began teaching First Aid for Rural Ambulance Victoria. 23 years on, he works with some of Australia’s largest pastoral corporations and property managers that combined manage over 200,000 square kms of the Australian landscape.

Known for conveying detailed First Aid information in a relatable and relaxed way, Scott’s

courses have become popular with Agricultural Property Managers, overseers and ringers alike. The highly practical course content ensures relevance to actual situations that are possible to encounter on a working property.

Scott continues to work with Ambulance Victoria alongside his First Aid training. 

For regular updates from us sign up to our list.

The post Shocking Truth: Understanding Defibrillators and How They Save Lives first appeared on Rural & Remote First Aid.

World First Aid Day

World First Aid Day was established to raise awareness about the importance of first aid skills and to promote their widespread adoption across communities worldwide. Its world origins trace back to the late 19th century when the concept of providing immediate care gained momentum, thanks to pioneers like Henry Dunant, the founder of the Red Cross.

This annual observance, celebrated every second Saturday in September, highlights the historical significance of first aid milestones, like the introduction of the first aid kit in the early 1900s.

This year the focus is on First Aid for Sports.

The Crucial Role of First Aid in Sports

Sports are an integral part of many people’s lives, providing physical and mental benefits. However, injuries are an inherent risk in athletic activities. This is where first aid plays a crucial role in safeguarding athletes and ensuring their well-being.

Why First Aid is Essential in Sports

• Rapid Response: In the event of an injury, immediate first aid can make a significant difference in preventing further complications and improving recovery times.
• Pain Management: First aid techniques can help alleviate pain and discomfort, allowing athletes to receive prompt medical attention.
• Injury Prevention: By understanding common sports injuries and their prevention strategies, first aid can help reduce the risk of accidents.
• Emergency Preparedness: First aid training equips individuals with the knowledge and skills to handle emergencies, such as cardiac arrest or severe bleeding.
• Confidence and Peace of Mind: Knowing that there is someone on hand to provide first aid can give athletes and their families peace of mind.

 

Common Sports Injuries and First Aid Measures

• Concussions: Assess for symptoms like confusion, dizziness, or headache. If suspected, remove the athlete from the game and seek medical attention.
• Sprains and Strains: Apply the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) to reduce swelling and pain.
• Cuts and Abrasions: Clean the wound, apply pressure to control bleeding, and cover with a sterile bandage.
• Heat-Related Illnesses: Recognize signs of heatstroke (confusion, dizziness, rapid pulse) and take immediate action to cool the athlete down.
• Fractures: Immobilize the injured area and seek medical attention.

 

The Role of First Aid Kits

A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any sports facility or team. It should contain items such as:

• Sterile bandages
• Gauze pads
• Antiseptic wipes
• Ace bandage
• Instant cold packs
• Pain reliever
• Tweezers

 

First Aid Training for Athletes and Coaches

Encouraging athletes and coaches to undergo first aid training can significantly improve safety on the field. Courses can cover topics such as:

• Basic life support (CPR)
• Automated external defibrillator (AED) use
• Common sports injuries and their management

By prioritizing first aid in sports, we can create a safer and more supportive environment for athletes of all ages and abilities.

By Scott Brown

If you would like more information about this topic or any others, purchase any First Aid stock or equipment, or to book a Remote Area First Aid course, please contact us on 0491 057 339 or email info@ruralandremotefirstaid.com.au

 

Our goal is that all Rural Australians will have the confidence and skills to act in an emergency. We do that by partnering with those that live and work in Rural and Remote Areas so that if an emergency occurs they will get the best possible outcome for their family member, workmates and organisation.

Author bio:

For over 23 years Scott Brown has been training Remote Area First Aid across Australia. Having first joined Rural Ambulance Victoria in 2001 and working in the high-country in Victoria, he began teaching First Aid for Rural Ambulance Victoria. 23 years on, he works with some of Australia’s largest pastoral corporations and property managers that combined manage over 200,000 square kms of the Australian landscape.

Known for conveying detailed First Aid information in a relatable and relaxed way, Scott’s courses have become popular with Agricultural Property Managers, overseers and ringers alike. The highly practical course content ensures relevance to actual situations that are possible to encounter on a working property.

Scott continues to work with Ambulance Victoria alongside his First Aid training. 
For regular updates from us sign up to our list.

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There were 27,428 Australians who experienced stroke for the first time in their lives in 2020, which equates to one stroke every 19 minutes. Each year in Australia approximately 50,000 people will suffer a stroke. 

A brief story from the Australian Stroke Alliance

“If you saw me, you’d never know that I’ve had a stroke”.

It has been six years since Kate, 40, experienced a stroke in regional Victoria.  The treatment she received in the precious hours that followed demonstrates how fortunate Kate was to be close to brain scanning and that a helicopter was available to fly her to a major tertiary hospital.

A radiographer at Hamilton Base Hospital, Kate had been at work when she received a call to pick up her son from daycare. On arrival, Kate collapsed and was unable to use her right side or talk. She was conscious though and understood all that was going on.

The day care staff called triple zero immediately and Kate was taken back to her workplace. Stroke protocols kicked in and Kate was taken straight for a CT brain scan. Local doctors spoke to a stroke specialist in Melbourne who had seen her brain scans via telehealth. The decision was made to helicopter Kate to Melbourne.

The stroke happened at 9:30am and Kate arrived in a Melbourne hospital at 2:10pm. She was wheeled into the room and intubated before the clots were removed surgically. At 5:30pm Kate woke up and could speak and move again. She spent three nights in hospital before going home.

Her recovery has been remarkable, so much so that she describes herself as being “absolutely fine”.  However, she realises she how lucky she was to receive co-ordinated, urgent pre-hospital care. This fast response and urgent treatment made a lifelong difference. 

A feeling of gratitude has inspired Kate to contribute to the Australian Stroke Alliance’s Consumer Council.

Stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to your brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients.  This can  cause brain cells to die, leading to permanent disability or death.  It’s crucial to recognize the signs of a stroke and act quickly.  

Stroke is a serious health condition affecting thousands of Australians each year. It’s crucial to recognize the signs, act quickly, and understand the impact of this disease.

The Shocking Reality of Stroke

• Prevalence: There were 27,428 Australians who experienced stroke for the first time in their lives in 2020, which equates to one stroke every 19 minutes. 
• Global Impact: One in four people globally will have a stroke in their lifetime.
• Living with Stroke: More than 445,087 Australians are living with the effects of stroke.
• Mortality: Stroke is one of Australia’s biggest killers. It kills more women than breast cancer and more men than prostate cancer.
• Economic Burden: In 2020, the estimated cost of stroke in Australia was $6.2 billion in direct financial impact, and a further $26.0 billion in mortality and lost wellbeing.

Who’s at Risk?

• Preventability: More than 80 percent of strokes can be prevented.
• Young Stroke Survivors: In 2020, 6,535 (24 percent of total) first-ever strokes occurred in people aged 54 years and under.
• Regional Disparity: Regional Australians are 17 percent more likely to suffer a stroke than those in metropolitan areas.

The Urgent Need for Action

• Time is Critical: When a stroke strikes, it attacks up to 1.9 million brain cells per minute.
• Growing Crisis: Without action by 2050 it is predicted that the number of first-ever strokes experienced by Australians annually will increase to 50,600, or one stroke every 10 minutes, and there will be 819,900 survivors of stroke living in the community.

Recognising the Signs of a Stroke

Remember the acronym FAST to help identify potential stroke symptoms:

• Face: Does one side of the face droop?
• Arms: Can the person raise both arms?
• Speech: Is their speech slurred or difficult to understand?
• Time: Time is critical. If you observe any of these signs, call emergency services immediately.

Other potential stroke symptoms include:

• Sudden severe headache
• Confusion or trouble understanding
• Sudden trouble seeing
• Sudden difficulty walking, dizziness, loss of balance
• Numbness or weakness in one side of the body

What to Do if You Suspect a Stroke

Time is of the essence. If you suspect someone is having a stroke, call emergency services immediately. Don’t hesitate. Every minute counts.

While waiting for help to arrive, it’s important to:

• Stay calm and reassure the person.
• Monitor their condition and note the time when symptoms started.
• Help the person lie down with their head slightly elevated.
• Loosen any restrictive clothing that could cause breathing difficulties.
• Avoid pulling or straining any weakened limbs.
• If the person is unconscious, check for breathing and pulse. If they are not breathing or have no pulse, start CPR immediately.

Do not give the person anything to eat or drink. Stroke can cause difficulty with muscle control, including the ability to swallow.  

Treatment for Stroke

Treatment for stroke depends on the type of stroke and its severity. The sooner treatment begins, the better the chances of recovery.

• Medications: Certain medications can help dissolve blood clots and restore blood flow to the brain.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove a blood clot or repair damaged blood vessels.
• Rehabilitation: After a stroke, rehabilitation is essential to help survivors regain lost abilities and improve their quality of life.

Preventing Stroke

While not all strokes can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:

• Manage blood pressure: High blood pressure is a major risk factor for stroke.
• Control cholesterol: High cholesterol can contribute to the buildup of plaque in arteries.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese increases stroke risk.
• Exercise regularly: Physical activity helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol.
• Eat a healthy diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.
• Don’t smoke: Smoking damages blood vessels and increases the risk of blood clots.
• Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol intake can raise blood pressure.

By understanding the signs of stroke and taking steps to prevent it, you can help save lives.

Disclaimer: This information is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any medical concerns.

By Scott Brown

If you would like more information about this topic or any others, purchase any First Aid stock or equipment, or to book a Remote Area First Aid course, please contact us on 0491 057 339 or email info@ruralandremotefirstaid.com.au

Click the image to take the 3 min quiz and get a personalised report sent to you.

For over 23 years Scott Brown has been training Remote Area First Aid across Australia. Having first joined Rural Ambulance Victoria in 2001 and working in the high-country in Victoria, he began teaching First Aid for Rural Ambulance Victoria. 23 years on, he works with some of Australia’s largest pastoral corporations and property managers that combined manage over 200,000 square kms of the Australian landscape.
Known for conveying detailed First Aid information in a relatable and relaxed way, Scott’s courses have become popular with Agricultural Property Managers, overseers and ringers alike. The highly practical course content ensures relevance to actual situations that are possible to encounter on a working property.
Scott continues to work with Ambulance Victoria alongside his First Aid training. 
For regular updates from us sign up to our list.

The post Stroke: Recognise the Signs, Act F.A.S.T first appeared on Rural & Remote First Aid.

In an emergency situation, severe bleeding can be life-threatening. While pressure and traditional bandages are crucial first-aid measures, haemostatic dressings offer a new level of control for bleeding wounds.

What are Haemostatic Dressings?

Haemostatic dressings are specialised bandages designed to accelerate blood clotting and stop bleeding quickly. They contain various clotting agents, such as zeolite or kaolin, which work by interacting with the body’s natural clotting factors to form a gel-like substance that seals the wound.

• Quikclot Combat Gauze
• Quikclot EMS 4×4 Dressing
• Quikclot EMS Rolled Gauze

Benefits of Haemostatic Dressings:

Rapid Blood Clot Formation: Haemostatic dressings significantly reduce bleeding time compared to traditional bandages. This is especially beneficial for severe arterial bleeds or situations where immediate medical attention is unavailable.

Ease of Use: Many haemostatic dressings are designed for simple application, even by individuals with minimal first-aid training. This can be crucial in the stressful moments following an injury.

Portability: Haemostatic dressings are typically compact and lightweight, making them ideal for first-aid kits carried in backpacks, cars, or workplaces.

Versatility: These dressings can be effective for various bleeding wounds, including cuts, scrapes, and puncture wounds.

Haemostatic Dressings vs. Traditional Bandages:

While haemostatic dressings offer significant advantages, traditional bandages remain a vital part of any first-aid kit. Here’s a quick comparison:

Who Can Benefit from Haemostatic Dressings?

Haemostatic dressings are a valuable addition to first-aid kits for:

Individuals at Risk of Bleeding Injuries: People who participate in activities with a high risk of cuts or puncture wounds.

Professionals: First responders, law enforcement personnel, and anyone working in environments where bleeding injuries are a possibility.

Families: A valuable addition to any home first-aid kit for emergency preparedness.

Important Considerations:

From the Australian Resuscitation Council Guidelines:

When available and the first aid provider is trained in their use, we suggest that haemostatic dressings are of most value in the following situations

• Severe, life-threatening bleeding not controlled by wound pressure, from a site not suitable for tourniquet use.
• Severe, life-threatening bleeding from a limb, not controlled by wound pressure, when the use of a tourniquet(s) alone has not stopped the bleeding, or a tourniquet is not available.

Not a Replacement for Medical Attention: Haemostatic dressings are for first-aid use only and should not replace seeking medical attention for serious injuries.

Training is Recommended: While generally easy to use, consider taking a first-aid course to learn proper application techniques.

Read Product Instructions Carefully: Different haemostatic dressings may have specific application instructions.

Haemostatic dressings are a powerful addition to any first-aid kit, offering a fast and effective way to control bleeding in emergency situations. By understanding their benefits and limitations, you can be better prepared to handle bleeding injuries and potentially save a life.

Be Prepared for Anything: Equip yourself with haemostatic dressings for your first-aid kit. Visit Rural and Remote First Aid to browse our selection of high-quality haemostatic dressings and ensure you have the tools you need to respond to bleeding emergencies.

By Scott Brown

If you would like more information about this topic or any others, purchase any First Aid stock or equipment, or to book a Remote Area First Aid course, please contact us on 0491 057 339 or email info@ruralandremotefirstaid.com.au

Click the image to take the 3 min quiz and get a personalised report sent to you.

Author bio:

For over 23 years Scott Brown has been training Remote Area First Aid across Australia. Having first joined Rural Ambulance Victoria in 2001 and working in the high-country in Victoria, he began teaching First Aid for Rural Ambulance Victoria. 23 years on, he works with some of Australia’s largest pastoral corporations and property managers that combined manage over 200,000 square kms of the Australian landscape.

Known for conveying detailed First Aid information in a relatable and relaxed way, Scott’s courses have become popular with Agricultural Property Managers, overseers and ringers alike. The highly practical course content ensures relevance to actual situations that are possible to encounter on a working property.

Scott continues to work with Ambulance Victoria alongside his First Aid training. 

For regular updates from us sign up to our list.

The post Stopping the Bleed: The Benefits of Haemostatic Dressings in First Aid first appeared on Rural & Remote First Aid.

Thuraya satellite service is no longer available in Australia due to an unforeseen technical issue. This means you can no longer make or receive calls, SMS, or data using your Thuraya device, including emergency calls.

We understand this disruption may cause inconvenience. Pivotel, the service provider for Thuraya in Australia, is offering alternative solutions to help you stay connected during your outback travels.

Here’s what you need to know:

 * Alternative Satellite Phone Options: Pivotel is offering special deals on Inmarsat and Iridium satellite phones, known for their reliable coverage and global reach. They can also help you transfer your existing service number to a new network.

 * Refunds and Returns: If you recently purchased a Thuraya phone or data terminal from Pivotel, you may be eligible for a full or partial refund. Pivotel will provide more details on the process.

 * Next Steps: Pivotel will soon launch an online portal for you to apply for replacement satellite phone services. Check your Pivotel account login details to ensure a smooth transition.

Pivotel’s customer care team is available at 1300 882 448 to answer any questions you may have.

We recommend exploring the alternative solutions offered by Pivotel to ensure you have reliable communication during your outback adventures.

The post Important update: Thuraya Satellite Service Discontinuation in Australia first appeared on Rural & Remote First Aid.