Firefighters Discover 19 Snakes, Some Venomous, in Burning North Charleston Home

Six snakes died in the blaze that displaced one resident, as authorities investigate the cause.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Firefighters responding to a house fire in North Charleston, South Carolina, encountered 19 snakes, including some that were reportedly venomous, inside the burning home. While the flames were brought under control within seven minutes, six of the snakes did not survive the incident. One person was displaced as a result of the fire, and the cause remains under investigation.

Why it matters

The discovery of nearly 20 snakes, some of them venomous, in a residential home during a fire raises concerns about public safety and the proper handling of exotic pets. It also highlights the challenges firefighters can face when responding to emergencies involving unusual circumstances.

The details

When firefighters arrived at the home on Vistavia Road in North Charleston, they found a large house fire and immediately began fighting the blaze while also searching for any occupants. After bringing the flames under control in about seven minutes, they discovered the 19 snakes, some of which were reportedly venomous. Six of the snakes died in the incident, and authorities have since accounted for all of the reptiles. One person was displaced as a result of the fire, the cause of which is still under investigation.

  • Firefighters responded to the fire on Vistavia Road in North Charleston on February 15, 2026.

The players

North Charleston Fire Department

The fire department that responded to the blaze and discovered the snakes inside the burning home.

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The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of proper pet ownership and the need for emergency responders to be prepared to handle unexpected situations, such as the presence of exotic animals in a residential fire. It also raises questions about the regulation and safety of keeping venomous snakes in private homes.