Members of the police in Danielskuil recently completed a specialised training programme focused on the safe handling of venomous snakes. The training, hosted by Idwala Mine, aimed to provide officers with essential knowledge and hands-on experience in identifying, capturing, and relocating some of the country’s most dangerous snake species.

Northern Cape police spokesperson Col. Cherelle Ehlers, said Sgt. Lebogang Moreothibang and const. Kesaoleboga Thomas showed remarkable dedication and courage throughout the course and completed the training.

“The programme was designed to empower our officers with the necessary tools and understanding to deal with potentially life-threatening snake encounters,” said Ehlers.

The officers were exposed to a variety of venomous snakes, including the puff adder, green mamba, boomslang, and night adder. Each species presents unique challenges, and the course emphasised both the theoretical and practical aspects of handling them safely.

The Northern Cape police officers were trained on handling dangerous snakes. Photo supplied 

“These dedicated members are now well-prepared to safely remove and handle dangerous snakes encountered within the community, thereby ensuring the safety of residents.” 

What to do when encountering a snake 

• Please do not attempt to handle or remove the snake on your own by attacking or confronting it. Instead, take note of where they are headed if they are not stationary, so you can call for professional help to remove them.
• Protect your family and pets by evacuating them from the scene and ensuring they are well kept away. Keep any possible entries closed until it is safe.
• Evacuate immediately and get professional help if they are trapped or hiding in hard-to-reach or tight spaces where there is no room for the snake to escape to or slip away behind or inside, such as a cupboard or shelves, or any furniture.
• Try not to engage in sudden movements that might startle or trigger the snake, and give them space. Most of the time, they did not mean to attack you. They might flee or move away if they come into contact with human beings. Move slowly away in the opposite direction.
• Seek medical attention in the event of a snake bite. Do not attempt to self-treat or address the wound; instead, keep the person calm and still while waiting for medical help.

It is helpful to take note of the appearance of the snake to help identify any possible poisoning risk.

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