Deadly snakes rescued after Reynella blaze

ALMOST 30 reptiles, including venomous snakes, have been rescued after a fire engulfed a Reynella unit.

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ALMOST 30 reptiles, including venomous snakes, have been rescued after a fire engulfed a Reynella unit.

The reptiles had to be rescued from a unit on Douglas Ave, where a blaze broke out about 4.30am on Monday.

Snake-Away Services snake handler Corey Renton said 29 snakes and lizards were registered to the property and all were accounted for.

Mr Renton said reptiles rescued included two of the world’s deadliest snakes — the inland taipan and eastern brown snake.

“It definitely is one of the most unusual jobs I’ve had so far,” Mr Renton said.

A Metropolitan Fire Service spokeswoman said six snakes had perished.

Snake catcher Corey Renton was brought in to recover several snakes and lizards from a unit at Reynella, which was destroyed by fire. Picture: Dean Martin

Mr Renton said the rescued reptiles did not appear badly injured, but each would be assessed for internal injuries.

He said the owner had the required permits to house the reptiles, which also included a carpet python and a couple of lizards.

“A lot of people have that many reptiles in their home,” he said.

Nobody was home when the blaze broke out at the unit, which was destroyed despite the efforts of 25 firefighters who prevented damage to adjoining properties.

The MFS spokeswoman said damage to the two-bedroom unit was estimated at $150,000.

The cause of the fire is considered accidental but undetermined.

Mr Renton said anyone who saw a snake should immediately call Snake-Away Services rather than try to deal with it themselves.

He said snake bite victims should apply first aid and call an ambulance.

Snake catcher Corey Renton with one of the snakes he rescued. Picture: Dean Martin

Snake bites

If you are bitten, Snake-Away Services recommends the following ­advice:

DO NOT wash the bite, do not cut and suck the bite and do not use a tourniquet.

FIRMLY apply a bandage to the bite site and 10cm to 15cm either side.

APPLY a second bandage from the bottom of the bit limb upwards about half a bandage width at a time. Repeat this step two to three times.

IMMOBILISE the limb to prevent movement of blood.

CALL an ambulance after you have applied first aid. Do not attempt to drive to hospital.