Urgent venomous snake warning ahead of warm weekend

An urgent warning has been issued to New South Wales residents to be on the look out for venomous snakes ahead of hot weather this weekend.

There have been more sightings of snakes in general since spring began and with temperatures set to reach the high 20s over the next two days, the likelihood of running into a venomous reptile is much higher.

The Australian Reptile Park says with much of the state in lockdown due to COVID-19 restrictions, there has been an increase in people going outdoors and bushwalking.

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They also advise people to brush up on first aid skills ahead of summer, especially in treating snake bites.

Reptile Keeper Jake Meney says while snakes don't go out of their way to harm humans, the start of spring is the perfect time to find out what to do if someone is bitten.

"Snake bites mostly occur when people are trying to catch or kill the snake, so if you don't do either of those things you should be okay," Mr Meney says.

"However, it is important to know the correct first aid technique, so if the worst-case scenario occurs you are prepared."

The Australian Reptile Park says a venomous snake bite could destroy blood cells, cause blood clots or excessive bleeding and destroy tissue.

Depending on the species of venomous snake, the bite could kill you within 30 minutes.

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The Australian Reptile Park says the warmer weather may also see more snakes venturing into people's backyards so people should make sure their yards are cleared of long grass and places snakes can hide or seek shelter.

Australia is home to the world's most venomous snakes, with approximately 3000 snake bites occurring each year.

Around 300 of these bites receive antivenom, according to The Australian Reptile Park and on average, one or two bites prove fatal.

For more information on how to treat a venomous snake bite click here.