Ticks are most active during the warmer parts of the year. Throughout the summer, people fall victim to tick bites which can cause various diseases including Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. If you spend anytime outside, it is important to know where ticks are found and how you can prevent their bites.
Where Ticks are Found
Ticks are found in tall grass and bushes where they wait to attach themselves to hosts that brush against them when passing by. The best way to avoid ticks is to keep your distance from their habitat by following the center of paths and navigating around any vegetation.
Protect Yourself From Tick Bites
If you plan on going outdoors where ticks may be present, make sure that you apply tick repellent to your clothing and wear clothing that covers any exposed skin. Only apply as much repellent as needed to avoid skin irritation. Always be sure to read the repellent's instructions before use.
Check for Ticks
Ticks can pass their disease to a host after it has attached itself for more than 24 hours, so it is important to check yourself for ticks after any time outdoors to quickly remove them. Remember to check your:
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Underarms
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Waist
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Knees and ears
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Scalp
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Legs
If you happen to find a tick on you, quickly but carefully remove it using a pair of tweezers.
Treating your Backyard for Ticks
While it may be challenging to completely eradicate ticks from your backyard, here are some steps you can take:
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Remove any excess leaves and brush in your backyard
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Keep your grass short through the warmer months
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Use fencing to keep animals that may carry ticks out of your yard, while keeping pets away from tick infested areas
If you have pets that are allowed outside, remember to check them for ticks regularly. Additionally, you may use tick repellents to keep ticks away from locations around your home such as grassy locations, under porches, and the perimeter of your backyard.
Enjoy your summer worry free by taking these preventative measures against tick bites.
