There’s a lot to love about spending time outdoors. Going outside is a great way to get some exercise, soak up the sunshine and enjoy the fresh air. However, it’s important to use caution when you’re spending time outdoors.
One of the dangers that you want to avoid is the possibility of getting bit by a tick. Tick bites might seem harmless at first, but they can lead to Lyme Disease and other dangerous problems. You can enjoy your time outdoors and keep you and your family safe by keeping these safety tips in mind.
First, make sure that everyone is properly clothed when you head outdoors, especially in wooded areas where ticks are most prevalent. Light-colored clothing makes it easier to see ticks when they are on you, and you can tuck your pants into your socks to keep the little bugs from sneaking up your pant legs.
You already love being outdoors in the sun, and staying in bright, sunny areas is one of the best things you can do to avoid ticks. Ticks need to be in environments with at least 80 percent humidity to survive long-term, so they tend to congregate in shady environments like piles of leaves or wood.
If you’re hiking, stay on the trails instead of venturing out into wooded areas. Before you leave your home, consider applying insecticide to your clothing to deter ticks.
If you’re having problems with ticks and other bugs in your yard, consider having a professional treatment completed. A quick mosquito protection can eliminate the majority of these pests from your yard, so you can use less bug spray when you’re spending time outdoors. A knowledgeable company will be able to target the areas of your yard that are most likely to attract and harbor pests like ticks and mosquitoes.
Whether you’re in an area that has been professionally treated or not, it’s very important to inspect yourself and your kids carefully when you come back inside, and don’t forget to check your dog and other pets for ticks when they come indoors.
Ticks can take several hours to transmit diseases after they bite someone, so you can avoid some sicknesses by taking a shower immediately after indoor activities. Showering also gives you the perfect opportunity to check yourself from head to toe for ticks.
When you’re careful about avoiding ticks, you can enjoy your time outside without fear.