Springtime means that we are all about to spend a lot more time outside. With increased outside activity, comes the need to take precautions and protect ourselves from dangerous insects we might encounter. You can reduce your chances of getting diseases, such as Lyme disease, by taking advantage of a tick treatment program, avoiding tick populated areas, and checking for ticks after spending time outdoors.
When is The Most Important Time to Check for Ticks?
The best time to check for ticks is immediately after you spend time in areas that are known to have a high tick population. There are also some activities that greatly increase your risk for tick bites. A few of these are:
- Hiking – especially sitting on deadfall trees when taking a break
- Horse riding
- Hunting
- Fishing from shore
- Gathering wood
- Spending time in heavily wooded areas
Along with recreational activities that increase your tick bite risk, there are occupations that increase your bite risk as well. A few of the major occupations are:
- Landscaping
- Construction
- Environmental Conservation
- Park/Wildlife Management
- Beach Lifeguard
- Farming
- Land Surveying
If you are in any of these areas, or performing any of these activities, take extra special care when you are checking for ticks. Taking the time to perform a quick tick-check will make it easier to become a part of your usual routine – one that could save you from a potentially dangerous tick bite.
How and Where to Check for Ticks
When you come in from spending time outside, especially in areas that could be highly infested, or if you have been engaging in any of the above work or recreational activities, you should check yourself, and your kids, for ticks.
When checking for ticks it is important to remember that ticks will move to more hidden parts of your body once they fall or land on you, so it is especially important to check in areas that are warm and dark, such as:
- Under the arms
- In and around the ears
- Inside the belly button
- Back of the knees
- In and around the hair
- Between the legs
- Around the waist
Staying Safe This Tick Season
Spring is the height of tick season. Of course, no one wants to stay inside to avoid the risk of tick bites. When you are outdoors, be sure to use a tick repellent body treatment, avoid high-infestation areas, and always check for ticks, especially if you are working or have children playing in an area that is known to have a high tick population.
On your own property, one of the best ways that you can avoid being bitten by a tick is to have your yard professionally treated with tick repellent. This clears and protects your yard from tick infestations, and creates a safe outdoor space for you and your friends and family to enjoy the great Spring weather without the fear of tick bites.
To learn more about taking advantage of a tick treatment program, contact Backyard Defenders today!