When faced with this frightening scenario, knowing how to respond is essential for your safety and that of the snake.

How do snakes end up in vehicles?

Snakes are cold-blooded creatures that rely on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature. A car’s warm engine or even the warmth of the vehicle interior, especially in the cooler months, can attract them.

In summer the opposite applies when they seek shelter and shade.

What to do when you find a snake in your car

Stay calm and assess the situation. Look at where the snake is in the vehicle and whether it’s in a confined space (such as under a seat or in the boot) or moving freely inside the cabin.

Remember that most snakes are non-aggressive and will likely try to escape rather than attack.

Keep a safe distance. Move slowly and avoid making any sudden movements that could provoke the snake.

Keep the windows and doors closed. If you’re inside the car, avoid opening the windows or doors unless you are sure it is safe to do so.

If you are outside the vehicle and you open the car doors, the snake may flee, but it could also slip out quickly and disappear into an area where you can no longer see it, making it more difficult to address the situation.

Call for professional help. While it may be tempting to try and handle the snake yourself, it is important to remember that many species of snakes are venomous, and attempting to capture or kill a snake without the proper training (backlink https://accesspd.co.za/snake-training), knowledge or tools can be dangerous.

Call a local snake handler or a wildlife rescue service for assistance.

Keep a list of local wildlife or snake rescue contacts saved in your phone for quick access.

If you have a safe distance from the snake, try to identify the species. This can help emergency responders understand the situation better.

Info: Arrive Alive