Spotted a Snake Indoors? Stay Calm — Here’s What You Should Do Immediately

For many of us, the mere mention of the word “snake” sends chills down the spine. Now, imagine actually seeing one inside your home! Their slithering movements and quiet entry are enough to trigger panic. During the monsoon season, it’s not uncommon to encounter these reptiles more frequently — including venomous species — as the rains disturb their natural habitats.

Snakes usually prefer to stay in hidden places like burrows or dense vegetation, but heavy rains can drive them out in search of shelter, which sometimes leads them straight into our homes. And yes, while it’s natural to feel terrified at the sight of one, reacting wisely is the key to staying safe.

To help you handle such a situation calmly and effectively, here’s a complete guide based on insights from pest control experts and wildlife professionals.

First Things First: Don’t Panic!

If you come face-to-face with a snake inside your house, the most important thing is to remain calm. Sudden movements can startle the snake and provoke it. Instead:

Stay still or slowly back away.

Keep a safe distance and make sure pets and children are out of the area.

Call a trained snake rescuer (commonly known in India as a Sarpmitra).

Avoid entering dark areas barefoot — always inspect first. Also, make it a habit to shake out shoes, clothing, and bags before using them, especially during the rainy season.

How to Keep Snakes Out of Your Home

Prevention is always better than a close encounter. Here’s how you can make your living space less attractive to snakes:

1. Light It Up

Snakes are mostly nocturnal, preferring darkness. Keep your garden, entrance, and surrounding areas well-lit at night. Motion sensor lights or automatic lighting systems can also help deter them.

2. Seal the Gaps

Snakes can slither through surprisingly small openings. Make sure to:

Seal any cracks in walls, especially near doors, windows, or pipes.

Close gaps under doors using rubber or metal door sweeps.

Cover gutters and drainage outlets securely.

3. Clean Your Surroundings

Snakes love hiding in clutter. Ensure that:

There are no piles of wood, plastic containers, or decaying leaves near the house.

Shrubs and bushes are trimmed regularly.

Moist and dark areas around your home are kept dry and clean.

4. Secure Common Entry Points

Be extra cautious about:

Electric meter boxes

Inverter areas

Drainage pipes and outlets

Covering these spots with mesh (tilted slightly outward and buried a few inches underground) adds an effective physical barrier. Use zip ties to keep them in place.

Do’s and Don’ts When You See a Snake

Do This:

Stay calm. Sudden reactions can make things worse.

Call professional help – a wildlife expert or local snake rescue service.

Shake out clothes, shoes, and bags before use.

Educate yourself on the 3–4 most common snakes in your area. Keep an ID chart on your fridge for quick reference.

Avoid This:

Don’t try to kill the snake. Not only is it dangerous, but it’s also illegal in many regions.

Don’t pour kerosene, diesel, or harmful chemicals. These can harm the environment and won’t guarantee the snake’s removal.

Don’t leave bird feed near your home. It attracts rodents — which, in turn, attract snakes.

Natural Deterrents That Might Help (But Don’t Rely on Them Alone)

Some people swear by natural repellents like crushed garlic mixed with rock salt, or the strong scent of traditional white phenyl (avoid perfumed versions). While these might help make your home less inviting to snakes, they should only be seen as an added precaution — not a foolproof solution.

Finding a snake inside your house is undoubtedly alarming, but losing your cool won’t help. The best defense is preparation: secure your home, stay alert during monsoon months, and call the right people if needed. By combining basic cleanliness, physical barriers, and a little knowledge, you can drastically reduce the chances of an unwanted reptilian visitor.

Remember: Snakes don’t want to encounter us either — they’re usually just looking for shelter or food. Respect their space, protect your own, and handle the situation with calm awareness.