First, families should stay away from tick-infested areas as much as they can. Most ticks are found in the wild, such as in moist wooded or grassy areas. Families should walk in the middle of the trail if hiking and not veer off the path into tall grasses or piles of leaves.
Second, if families are going to be in an area where ticks may be present, they should dress appropriately. Everyone should wear long sleeves and long pants and should leave no gaps in their clothing. For example, shirts should be tucked into pants, and pant legs should be tucked into socks. Wearing a cap is also a good idea. Light-colored shirts and pants will help parents easily identify ticks on their children’s clothes. In addition, it is very important to apply a tick repellent to skin and clothing that includes DEET.
Third, after being outdoors, individuals should inspect their bodies thoroughly for ticks. Parents should also make sure to check their children if they are too young to do it themselves. Ticks like to hide in the warmest, moistest areas of the body, such as around waistbands, in armpits, near the groin, inside the belly button and in hair.
Finally, families can create tick-free zones in their yards. Keeping vegetation like tall perennials and bushes away from living spaces, including patios and pools, will help. However, perhaps the best method is to have a professional apply a chemical control agent, such as that offered by www.mosquitosquad.com.
Creating a tick-free space in the family yard is vital for enjoying the warmer months as a group. Of course, if a family member ever notices a tick on their skin, it should be carefully removed with tweezers. Families should also be vigilant about watching for symptoms of a tick bite, such as an unexplained fever or rash. Tick prevention is everyone’s responsibility.
