With summer mere weeks away, a nationwide warning is urging Aussies to tend to their backyards and pool areas as sharp rise in deadly snake sightings have been reported.
Brett Blair CEO and general manager of Jim’s Pool Care Australia issued the warning after a wave of reports from pool technicians encountering snakes in and around residential pools.
“We are seeing a disturbing increase in the number of snakes lurking around household pools,” he said.
“These just aren’t your average python, we are coming across brown snakes and red-bellied snakes, to name a few.
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Snakes search for water and shade near pools in summer. Images: Supplied
“These are highly venomous snakes that can kill you.”
As temperatures climb snakes will go searching for water and shade that Mr Blair said pools are the perfect place for both.
“Over the past few weeks, our pool technicians have seen a significant increase in sightings of dangerous snakes lurking in pool areas, skimmer boxes and filter enclosures,” he said.
“Children don’t understand how dangerous they are and nor do they realise the peril they could be in simply playing around the pool.”
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Mr Blair said snakes lurk in pool areas, skimmer boxes and filter enclosures
Snake in a pool filter
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According to Mr Blair, snakes are drawn to pools for a range of reasons with the access to water during hot, dry spells one.
“They also like cool, damp hiding spots under pool equipment, pot plants and furniture,” he said.
Pool areas were said to also provide great environments for food.
“Food sources, such as frogs and rodents typically thrive around water,” Mr Blair said.
“Pools and gardens are perfect microclimates, shaded, moist and quiet during the day.
“It’s an ideal environment for snakes to seek shelter.”
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Snakes are often found in pool filters
Homeowners were urged to take immediate steps to reduce risks, particularly families with children or pets as snake activity is at its seasonal peak.
“It can be a terrifying experience when you reach for the pool skimmer or step outside barefoot and there’s a snake coiled up behind the filter box,” Mr Blair said.
Proactive measures before summer arrives include clearing out old furniture, pots and pool toys that create hiding spots for snakes.
Mr Blair said to cut back overgrown bushes and grass around pool fences and equipment, check skimmer boxes carefully before reaching inside.
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Homeowners are urged to cut back overgrown bushes and grass around pools
It was also noted important to avoid leaving pet food or bird seed outdoors, as these attract rodents and rodents attract snakes.
“Call a licensed snake catcher immediately if a snake is spotted, never attempt removal yourself,” Mr Blair said.
“Snakes are part of our environment, but a little awareness and maintenance can go a long way toward keeping your family safe.
“now’s the time to tidy up, check your filters and pumps and be extra vigilant.”
Jim’s Pool Maintenance team can assist homeowners
Homeowners were also urged to keep their pool clean and crystal clear in prevention
According to Mr Blair, prevention is everything.
“You would be surprised where snakes can hide and many of them blend in with foliage,” he said.
He added not to pick up toys or furniture with your bare hands and instead try and do so with a long handled broom or similar type of implement.
“Once you know an item is safe and snake free, you can then clear it away,” he said.
Ensuring homeowners keep their pool clean and crystal clear isn’t only beneficial for swimming.
“Snakes can also hide at the bottom of pools or under pool ledges,” Mr Blair said.
“They are pesky critters and are adept at hiding in the most unobvious places.”
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