CBMCE has reported a 9.88 percent rise in animal rescue calls across Ceará between January and May 2025.
According to the Ceará Military Fire Department (CBMCE), it responded to 4,935 animal-related incidents during this period, compared to 4,491 in the same period in 2024.
CBMCE stated that most rescues involved snakes and cats, which accounted for the largest share of total calls.
The department highlighted two recent examples: one in Cocó where a corn snake was found in a bathroom, and another in Antônio Bezerra where a boa constrictor was removed from a roof.
CBMCE confirmed that the corn snake, which is non-venomous and not native to the area, was transferred to CETAS/IBAMA, while the boa was returned to a natural area near water and away from homes.
CBMCE has warned that encounters with snakes tend to increase from March to August due to seasonal and reproductive factors.
The department explained that rain leads to a rise in rodent populations, a primary food source for snakes, while the same period coincides with snake mating season.
CBMCE reported that snake encounters are common in both urban and rural environments during early mornings and late afternoons.
The department said that most incidents involve men aged between 6 and 70, with 70 percent of bites occurring on the feet or legs.
It added that high-risk areas include vacant lots, dense vegetation, and humid environments, particularly during morning and dusk hours.
CBMCE has provided a list of safety measures to help residents avoid snake encounters and reduce the risk of bites.
It advised wearing long boots, gloves, and closed-toe shoes, especially when working in vegetation or rural environments.
The department recommended keeping yards clean, avoiding parking near wooded or damp areas, and using long tools to inspect objects before handling them.
CBMCE emphasized that residents should never try to capture a snake and should instead call 193 if one is spotted.
It added that people camping or walking outdoors should check shoes and tents carefully and avoid leaving clutter near homes.
CBMCE has released specific instructions for responding to snake bites, aimed at reducing harm and improving treatment outcomes.
It advised keeping the victim calm and lying down to slow venom spread, washing the bite site with soap and water, and providing small sips of water to keep them hydrated.
The department stressed that victims should be taken to medical facilities immediately, where professionals can provide the appropriate care.
CBMCE suggested photographing the snake from a distance to help identify the species, which supports proper medical treatment.
It stated that individuals should not attempt to suck out venom, apply tourniquets, cut the wound, give alcohol, or use home remedies.
CBMCE has outlined distinguishing features of venomous and non-venomous snakes to help the public identify potential risks.
The department explained that venomous snakes tend to have triangular heads, vertical pupils, prominent front fangs, and tails that taper quickly.
In contrast, non-venomous snakes generally have elongated heads, circular pupils, and gradually narrowing tails.
CBMCE reported that venomous snake bites may result in pain, swelling, nausea, blisters, dizziness, and swollen lymph nodes.
It recommended that people seek medical attention in all suspected cases, even if symptoms are unclear.
CBMCE noted that in Brazil, an estimated 30,000 people are bitten by snakes each year, with species such as jararacas and rattlesnakes responsible for most incidents.
CBMCE reported 4,935 animal rescue calls between January and May 2025.
This marked a 9.88 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024.
Snakes made up 3,357 of the rescues, representing 68.02 percent of all calls.
Cats were the second most common animal rescued, with 579 incidents recorded.
CBMCE handled two notable incidents involving a corn snake and a boa constrictor.
The corn snake was not native to the area and was transferred to CETAS/IBAMA.
The boa was released near a water source and away from residential zones.
CBMCE warned that snake sightings rise during the rainy and mating seasons.
It said rodents attract snakes to urban and rural areas.
Most bite victims were male and incidents occurred early or late in the day.
The fire department issued guidance on PPE use and yard maintenance.
It emphasized avoiding contact with snakes and calling 193 for help.
It also provided first aid steps, including cleaning the bite and seeking medical care.
CBMCE highlighted that attempts to extract venom or apply tourniquets are unsafe.
It described how to identify venomous species and symptoms of envenomation.
The department attributed the increase in calls to expanded services and greater public awareness.
