These kits have a syringe-like suction device
that draws poison out of the same hole that a
snake or insect injected the poison through,
without any cutting.
They are quite effective and some have been
documented to remove up to 75% of a
poisonous snake's venom if used within the
first minute after a bite.
“”
Stinging nettles can be treated using
wet sand to scrub off the invisible
stinging hairs, followed by wet moss
packed on the area for cooling and
soothing relief.
Watching one's step, wearing one's lifejacket in
a boat, looking behind before making a cast,
observing wildlife from a safe distance,
wearing
proper
clothing,
and
other
goodexamples all leave an impression on a
child who is learning about the outdoors.
HOOKS
When baiting hooks, keep a firm grip on the
bait. The movements of slippery worms or
minnows can cause serious hook injuries.
Handle lures having clusters of double or treble
hooks with special care.
When landing a fish, ease it out of the water
into a net or onto the bank. Jerking a fish out of
the water can result in wildly flying hooks,
especially if the fish comes loose.
Poison oak and poison ivy reactions can be
prevented by immediately washing the area
with soap and water and by spraying on a
cheap aerosol anti-perspirant (deodorant alone
doesn't have the right ingredients). Juice
crushed or boiled out of elderberry leaves and
dabbed on the skin is the best medicine
available to relieve poison oak or poison ivy
after the reaction has already started, but the
area should still be washed first with soap and
water to remove the poisonous oil.
ON THE BANK OR SHORE
Stay with your rod or pole. Protect curious
children and animals from painful injuries by
returning loose hooks and lures to your tackle
box. Watch your backcasting clearance: avoid
trees, bushes and especially people. Help
prevent erosion:
protect grass and shrubs near the water's edge.
If you dig worms, go back away from the water
to do so. Be sure to level the soil and replace
the sod afterward.
With all of the safety and first aid products and
information available, the most important
thing for an adult to do is to be a good example
of outdoor and fishing safety.
Angling Times Weekly SA
38
www.anglingtimes.co.za