Snake in the house

Snakes are generally shy and will not attack unless provoked. Most bites happen when someone tries to catch or kill one, so leave it to a professional.

• Keep people and pets away. If you can do it safely, shut the snake in one room.
• Keep track of where it is. Its size, and the date and time you saw it, help the catcher. A photo helps identify it, if you can take one safely.
• Call a professional snake catcher in your area. In the Northern Territory the number is 1800 453 210. Elsewhere, search for a catcher near you.
• Never try to catch, kill or touch it.
• If anyone is bitten, call 000 and use the bandage steps.

Snake bite: what to do

SourcesGovernment of South Australia — what to do if you see a snake·NT.GOV.AU — report a snake·healthdirect — snake bites