Thiruvananthapuram: Unusual summer heat followed by early rains in Kerala is pushing snakes out of their natural shelters and into human living spaces, raising safety concerns across the region.
Experts say snakes are cold blooded animals, which means they cannot regulate their body temperature on their own. During intense summer heat, the burrows and holes where they usually stay become extremely hot. Unable to tolerate this, snakes move out in search of cooler places.
As a result, they are increasingly found inside homes, especially in damp and cool areas such as bathrooms, near air conditioner outlets, around wells, and on cool floor surfaces. Residents are being urged to stay alert as these encounters become more frequent.
The situation becomes more serious when summer rains begin. When rainwater hits the dry and heated soil, heat escapes as vapor, making conditions inside burrows uncomfortable. In many cases, water also fills these underground spaces, forcing snakes to come out to avoid suffocation.
At the same time, frogs and other small animals become active during the early rainy season, attracting snakes in search of food into residential areas. Authorities advise people to keep surroundings clean and free of thick vegetation and to avoid moving around in the dark without proper lighting.
Health experts also stress the importance of proper first aid in case of snakebite. The most important step is to take the patient to a well equipped hospital as quickly as possible. The person should be kept calm because panic can increase heart rate and speed up the spread of venom.
The bitten area should be kept below heart level and should not be moved. Tight clothing or jewelry near the bite should be removed to prevent complications if swelling occurs. Identifying the snake can help treatment, but people should not waste time trying to catch or kill it.
Doctors warn against common mistakes. Cutting the wound or trying to suck out venom is dangerous. Tying a tight band above the bite can stop blood flow and damage tissues. Traditional remedies and herbal treatments should be avoided as they delay proper care. Patients should not be given alcohol or caffeinated drinks, and ice or ointments should not be applied.
Medical professionals highlight that the first hour after a snakebite is critical. Timely treatment with anti venom in a government or major private hospital can prevent most deaths.
With changing weather patterns, experts say awareness and quick action remain the best ways to reduce risks and save lives.