snakes at home. report sightings and tips how to avoid them

Any day now snakes will emerge from their winter hibernation and start hunting for food. Unfortunately they will pose a threat to anyone who gets too close. I don't worry about myself or Ms SP but I am always concerned about my dog and cat. Last year I had three browns (that I saw) go through my house. God knows what goes on here when I am out. My mate 10km up the road had a death adder on his patio while my neighbour 100 metres away found a very rare pygmy death adder asleep next to his fridge. The National Parks and Wildlife officer up here reckons the best insurance you can have against reptile intrusion is to continually bait for rodents. Which I do. Any other stories or advice?