Tick Talk! Protect Yourself & Your Loved Ones: Ticks Are Out In Full Force!
Ticks got you nervous this season? They are out in full force this year! Check out our latest article for tips on staying safe and tick-free! 🌿 #TickSeason #MinnesotaNews #SummerNews
Duluth, MN – It’s that time of year again – tick season! And this year in the Midwest, they’re especially nasty due to the warm winter we had. Before you head outdoors for some fun in the Minnesota sun, make sure you’re prepared to prevent becoming a tick’s next meal.
👕 Dress for Success
When venturing into tick territory, wear light-colored clothing so those pesky critters are easier to spot. Tuck your pants into your socks or boots, and your shirt into your pants. It might not be the most fashionable look, but it’s better than having a tick crawling up your leg!
🌳 Stay on the Beaten Path
Stick to the center of trails when hiking or walking through the woods. Ticks love to hang out in tall grass and brush, waiting for an unsuspecting host to come along. By staying in the middle of the trail, you’ll reduce your chances of picking up any unwanted hitchhikers.
🦟 Use the Right Repellent
Before heading out, apply an EPA-registered tick repellent. Be sure to follow the directions on the label carefully. If you’re planning on spending a lot of time outdoors, consider using permethrin on your clothing and gear for extra protection.
🔍 Check, Check, and Check Again
After your outdoor adventure, thoroughly check yourself, your kids, and your pets for ticks. Don’t forget to look in hard-to-see places like behind the knees, in the groin area, and under the arms. Ticks can be as small as a freckle, so take your time and be thorough.
If you find a tick, remove it immediately using tweezers or your fingers. Grasp the tick by its head, close to the skin, and pull outward slowly and steadily. Clean the area with soap and water afterwards. The sooner you remove the tick, the lower your risk of contracting a tickborne disease.
🐶 Don’t Forget About Your Furry Friends
Talk to your vet about safe and effective tick repellents for your pets. Check them daily for ticks and remove any you find right away. Remember, your pets can bring ticks into your home, so it’s important to keep them protected too.
🏡 Create a Tick-Free Zone
If you live near the woods, there are some simple landscaping techniques you can use to reduce the number of ticks in your yard. Keep your lawn and trails mowed short, remove leaves and brush, and consider creating a barrier of wood chips between your lawn and the woods. By making your yard less inviting to ticks, you’ll lower your risk of encountering them.
😊 Have Fun and Stay Safe
Don’t let ticks ruin your outdoor fun this season! By following these simple tips, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from tickborne diseases. Remember, prevention is key. Stay vigilant, check for ticks often, and enjoy all the wonderful activities nature has to offer. Now get out there and have a tick-free adventure! Happy travels.
Sign Up for Our Newsletter
🗣 Are you worried about ticks this year? Have any tips of your own we should add to this list? We’d LOVE to hear from you in the comments section below. ⬇️
