Snakes are out and about across Gippsland to bask in the sun and search for food and a mate.
DELWP senior wildlife project officer for Gippsland Simon Ruff said sunny weather also meant it was more likely people would encounter a snake.
"Snakes are generally shy and prefer to keep away from people, and often when a snake is found in a backyard it's because it's moving through the area to another habitat," Mr Ruff said.
"In Gippsland, tiger snakes and lowland copperheads are more common near the coast, while eastern browns prefer the drier areas. Red bellied black snakes are also common."
Whilst these four species are venomous, Mr Ruff said it was rare for them to bite people.
"Most snake bites occur when people try to capture or kill a snake.
"Being aware that snakes may be around, and being informed about how to react to them, is important at this time of year," Mr Ruff said.
If you live in an area with snakes, please remember:
When left alone, snakes present little or no danger to people.
If you see a snake, keep calm and move yourself and anyone with you (including pets) away from the area.
Don't attempt to capture or harm snakes. Instead call DELWP on 136 186 for further advice.
Maintain lawns and clean up around your house, as snakes are attracted to shelter such as piles of rocks and timber, chook sheds, sheets of metal, and building materials.
Undertake first aid training and ensure your first aid kit contains several compression bandages. If someone is bitten, call 000 immediately.
Snakes are protected under the Wildlife Act 1975, and it is illegal to capture, harm, or kill them.
If you have information about people wilfully destroying protected wildlife, please contact Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000.