First consider if the snake presents a safety risk such as if it is near pet areas, where children might play, or if it is an area that can't be avoided. Snakes will usually disappear at the first sign of danger and are often never seen again. Be realistic about the environment where the snake exists and if it is really necessary to relocate the animal. For example, a snake near a creek at the bottom of a 20 acre property is unlikely to be a problem and chances are that other snakes exist in the area anyway. It is OK to leave snakes alone and simply be careful and aware that snakes exist in the area.

When a snake is sighted outside, it is usually basking in the sunshine as they must warm themselves before they can eat. It is important to keep well away for personal safety but also to avoid scaring the snake away and then wondering where it got to. Lock up dogs and cats inside the house or garage. If undisturbed, a basking snake will remain still for a considerable time and allow an opportunity for a snake catcher to attend and relocate the snake if required. If possible, keep an eye on the snake from as far as possible until the snake catcher arrives in case the snake moves off and note the direction in which it moves.

If a snake is observed moving through a property or the snake was disturbed and took off, it is unlikely that the snake will be found by the time a snake catcher arrives unless the snake was seen taking cover under a specific object such as a rock, a pile of wood, or a sheet of tin. Even then, searching can be difficult and is often unsuccessful. Some of the favorite hiding spots for snakes are under gas cylinders, in firewood sheds, around pop-up sprinklers, or in phone/power underground pits.