SHAH ALAM, May 12 — The Selangor Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) has urged the public to keep their surroundings clean to prevent reptiles and other venomous animals from entering homes, particularly during the rainy season.
The reminder comes after the department recorded more than 10,000 related emergency calls over the past year.
Selangor JBPM assistant director (operations) Ahmad Mukhlis Mokhtar said that unclean surroundings and environments resembling animals’ natural habitats are among the factors attracting wild animals into residential areas.
Habitat disruption may also force animals to seek shelter elsewhere, while some may wander into homes and use them as temporary hiding places from threats.
“Areas around the home that are not properly maintained, are dirty, foul-smelling, and contain food sources can also attract venomous animals,” he told Media Selangor.
As such, Mukhlis urged the public to maintain a clean environment, advising that food waste be disposed of promptly at designated locations away from residential areas.
He emphasised that garbage should not be left exposed but should instead be wrapped in plastic and placed in covered bins.
During periods of heavy rain, there will usually also be an increase in cases involving venomous animals as they seek new shelter, migrate, or are displaced after their nests are destroyed by water or other environmental disturbances.
According to the Selangor JBPM’s data, it consistently recorded more than 645 cases a month over the past year, with the highest number reported in September at 1,165.
The department received 114 calls in the first six days of this month alone.
Regarding how it handles cases of animal intrusions, Mukhlis said they would catch and relocate the animals to their natural habitat if they were found outside the house and did not pose a threat.
If the animal is inside the house, he advised the public to keep a safe distance, monitor its location until JBPM arrives, and to avoid provoking or threatening it, as this could make the animal aggressive.
“Always monitor and refrain from taking matters into your own hands. The public must immediately contact the Fire Department if the animal is dangerous or venomous.
“Do not risk handling the animal yourself if you lack the necessary knowledge and specialised equipment,” he said.
