Crocodile Attacks in Australia: Challenges for Injury Prevention and Trauma Care

Abstract

Saltwater crocodiles are formidable predators in northern Australia, and crocodile attacks on humans are not rare. With recent deaths highlighting this as a public health issue, an evidence-based discourse about effective methods of minimizing the danger to humans is needed. Using the Haddon Matrix for injury prevention, approaches to minimizing crocodile associated death and injury were sought. Possibilities for harm minimization before, during and after a crocodile attack are identified, and their merits appraised. The importance of excellent prehospital and surgical and critical care is emphasized. A combination of behavior adaptation, mutual respect, and minimizing contact will be the key to minimizing the harm from attacks, and excellent medical and surgical care will always be necessary for those unfortunate to be victims but fortunate to survive.