They are urging the community to keep a look out for snakes and despite repeated warnings not to drive yourself to hospital after a snake bite, a number of people have in fact gone against their advice and driven to hospital.

The Ambulance Service of New South Wales strongly advises patients to remain calm and stay put as movement will exacerbate the envenomation process therefore worsening the patient’s condition.

Snakes enjoy the warm weather as much as humans do.

They also like to laze in the sun and unfortunately many of them have colours and patterns that make them difficult to see.

Flood affected areas are finding that snakes have been flushed out of their natural habitat and are now seeking dry ground.

The Ambulance Service of NSW recommends the following precautions be taken to reduce the risk of snake bite: If you come across a snake, leave it alone and walk away.

A snake will usually not bite unless it feels threatened, never touch or attempt to catch snakes, wear sensible, closed-in footwear when in high-risk areas, be very vigilant and watch where you are walking when in areas that snakes may inhabit and when bushwalking remain on clearly defined designated tracks.

If someone is the victim of a snake bite, call triple zero and ask for Ambulance, remain on the line whilst details of the incident are obtained and an Ambulance is dispatched.

It is important to stay calm.