Warm weather means more time outdoors, but it also means more potential exposure to ticks. These tiny pests are more than just a nuisance; they can transmit diseases like Lyme, anaplasmosis and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. The good news? A few smart habits can help keep you and your family safe.
Here are six essential ways to avoid ticks while outdoors:
- Dress defensively.
Think light, long and tucked. Wear light-colored clothing so ticks are easier to spot. Long sleeves and pants act as physical barriers, and tucking your pants into socks can block ticks from crawling up your legs. For extra protection, treat clothing and gear with permethrin, which kills ticks on contact and stays effective through several washes.
- Be repellant.
Choose a repellent that’s made to fight ticks. Look for at least 20% DEET, picaridin or IR3535 on the label. Spray exposed skin before heading out. Natural options like oil of lemon eucalyptus offer some protection but reapply frequently. Spraying shoes and socks adds another layer of defense – ticks often latch on low and crawl upward.
- Stick to the center.
Avoid the taller grasses where ticks thrive. When hiking, walking the dog or just exploring your backyard, stay in the middle of trails and out of overgrown areas. Ticks wait at the tips of grasses and bushes, ready to hitch a ride on passing hosts.
- Check and shower.
Do a full body tick check as soon as you come inside. Don’t forget behind the ears, underarms, along your waistband and your scalp. Showering within two hours of being outdoors helps wash away any unattached ticks and gives you a good chance to spot them.
- Dry then wash!
Clothes can carry ticks indoors. Toss outdoor clothing into a hot dryer for 10 minutes before washing. High heat kills ticks better than detergent. Be sure to inspect clothing and gear before bringing it inside.
- Protect your pets.
Dogs and cats can bring ticks into your home without you realizing it. Ask your vet about tick preventives like collars, spot-on treatments and chewables. Check your pets daily, especially around ears, paws and necks, the prime tick-hiding spots.
Stay sharp and this summer you can dodge ticks and keep enjoying everything the season has to offer.
