GOV.BW

Botswana Defence Force (BDF) provides snake capture services, in Gaborone and its periphery. With the escalating reports of snakes found in homesteads the BDF has since engaged in assisting members of the community in capturing such dangerous reptiles.

Caution:

• Do not attempt to capture the snakes by yourself
• If you are not in danger do not attempt to kill the snake
• If there is a snake bite:
  1. Do not panic but remain calm
  2. Do not cut the wound or attempt to remove the venom
  3. Immobilise the bitten part and stay as quiet as possible to keep the poison from spreading through your body
  4. Remove jewelry before you start to swell
  5. Apply a splint to reduce blood movement of the affected area but keep it loose enough so as not to restrict blood flow
  6. Don't drink caffeine and alcohol
  7. Cleanse the wound but don't flush it with water, cover it with a clean dry cloth
  8. Position yourself if possible so that the bite is at or below the level of your heart
  9. Don't try to capture the snake but try to remember its type,colour and shape so that you can describe it, which will help in your treatment.
  10. Call 998 or seek immediate medical attention

This service is provided 24 hours 7 days a week.