THE speed with which a compression bandage is applied could be the difference between life and death.

Once a snake bites its victim, the venom is transported through the lymphatic system and movement and increased heart rate can hasten the flow.

QAS south-western region commissioner Dee Taylor-Dutton said the onset of the warmer seasons had seen snakes become more active.

"Snakes are on the move and people need to take care, particularly when they are outside gardening, bushwalking or using public parks," she said.

The important thing for people who have been bitten to remember is to stay calm.

"Immediately call 000, stay as still as possible and let the help come to you," Ms Taylor-Dutton said.

"As hard as it is, you must stay calm, as panicking will cause your heart rate to increase and spread the poison around your body quicker."

Warwick advanced care paramedic Dave Thompson said time was of the essence when bandaging a snake bite and all bites require ambulance transportation.

He said if the victim should call 000 while somebody else bandaged the bite. If the victim is alone, it is recommended they wrap the affected limb before calling for help.

Mr Thompson said while most people only had one or two bandages in their first aid kit, he recommended each person have at least four in their home.

"Elasticised bandages are preferable but when push comes to shove, any bandage will do," he said.

"And it should be reasonably firm but not overly tight so that the person is uncomfortable."

What to do

• Try to remain calm and call 000 immediately.
• Don't wash the wound. Hospitals can test the bandage for poison and identify the type of snake.
• If only one bandage is available, start over the bite and work up the limb.
• If more than one bandage is available, bandage over the bite site and then start at the extremities (fingers or toes) and work up the limb.
• Bandage as firmly as you would a sprained ankle.
• Once bandaged, apply a splint to the area to restrict movement