Chennai, Oct 16:
Fire and Rescue Services personnel in Chennai have been attending to a growing range of animal rescue calls, with snakes accounting for a significant share of the incidents.
Apart from responding to fires and other emergencies, firefighters are frequently called upon to rescue snakes found in residential premises, offices and public spaces. The calls increase when changing weather conditions drive reptiles out of their usual habitats in search of shelter.
Personnel also handle rescue operations involving other animals that become trapped in drains, buildings and confined spaces.
The rescue work requires trained staff to handle animals carefully and ensure public safety while avoiding harm to the creatures. Residents are advised not to attempt to catch or kill snakes themselves and instead contact the appropriate rescue services.
The incidents highlight the expanding role of the Fire and Rescue Services in responding to emergencies beyond firefighting, particularly in a densely populated city such as Chennai.