Increase in snakes in pools: Jim’s Pool Care issues urgent warning to homeowners
Announcement posted by Invigorate PR 07 Nov 2025
Australians are being urged to check their backyards and pool areas as a sharp rise in snake sightings sends shivers through suburbs nationwide. Brett Blair, CEO and general manager of Jim's Pool Care Australia, has issued a national warning after a wave of reports from pool technicians encountering snakes in and around residential pools.
"We are seeing a disturbing increase in the number of snakes lurking around household pools. These just aren't your average python, we are coming across brown snakes and red-bellied black snakes, to name a few," Blair said.
"These are highly venomous snakes that can kill you. Children don't understand how dangerous they are and nor do they realise the peril they could be in simply playing around the pool."
When cooling off becomes a close call
"As temperatures climb, snakes go searching for water and shade and pools are perfect for both," Blair said.
"Over the past few weeks, our pool technicians have seen a significant increase in sightings of dangerous snakes lurking in pool areas, skimmer boxes and filter enclosures."
With snake activity at its seasonal peak, Blair warned that homeowners need to take immediate steps to reduce risks, particularly families with children or pets.
"It can be a terrifying experience when you reach for the pool skimmer or step outside barefoot and there's a snake coiled up behind the filter box," he said.
Why snakes love pool areas
"Snakes are drawn to pools for a range of reasons. They like access to water during hot, dry spells. They also like cool, damp hiding spots under pool equipment, pot plants and furniture," Blair said.
"Pool areas also provide great environments for food. Food sources, such as frogs and rodents typically thrive around water.
"Pools and gardens are perfect microclimates, shaded, moist and quiet during the day. It's an ideal environment for snakes to seek shelter."
What homeowners should do right now
Blair is urging homeowners to take proactive measures before summer hits full swing.
- Clear out old furniture, pots and pool toys that create hiding spots.
- Cut back overgrown bushes and grass around pool fences and equipment.
- Check skimmer boxes carefully before reaching inside.
- Avoid leaving pet food or bird seed outdoors, as these attract rodents and rodents attract snakes.
- Call a licensed snake catcher immediately if a snake is spotted, never attempt removal yourself.
"Snakes are part of our environment, but a little awareness and maintenance can go a long way toward keeping your family safe," Blair said.
"Our technicians are trained to spot hazards and we're reminding homeowners that now's the time to tidy up, check your filters and pumps and be extra vigilant. Prevention is everything.
"You would be surprised where snakes can hide and many of them blend in with folage. Don't pick up toys or furniture with your bare hands. Try and do so with a long handled broom or similar type of implement. Once you know an item is safe and snake free, you can then clear it away.
"This is another reason why you also need to ensure you keep your pool clean and crystal clear. Snakes can also hide at the bottom of pools or under pool ledges. They are pesky critters and are adept at hiding in the most unobvious places."
About Jim's Pool Care
Jim's Pool Care is one of Australia's largest and most trusted pool service networks, with more than 150 locally owned franchise businesses operating nationwide. The company provides professional mobile pool cleaning, maintenance, equipment supply and installation services to residential and commercial clients. Backed by the trusted Jim's Group, Jim's Pool Care is committed to safety, reliability and exceptional customer service, helping Australians enjoy clean, safe and sparkling pools all year round. With a strong focus on training, support and innovation, Jim's Pool Care continues to set the industry standard for quality and customer satisfaction.
About Jim's Group
Jim's Group was founded by Jim Penman in 1989 and now has some 5,550 franchisees in more than 50 divisions. It is the largest franchise chain in the Southern Hemisphere.