How to Prevent Tick Bites
Ticks feed on the blood of both both people and animals. Because they can transmit serious diseases, it is important to take precautions to prevent tick bites.
Instructions
-
-
1
Use an insect repellent that is 20% to 30% DEET.
-
2
Purchase clothing that is pre-treated with Permethrin, or buy a Permethrin spray as a further deterrent to ticks.
-
-
3
Wear long pants and long sleeves. The clothing does not have to be heavy, but the length will provide an addition way of keeping ticks from getting to your skin.
-
4
Tuck your pantlegs into your socks. This creates an additional barrier that makes it harder for ticks to get in.
-
5
Avoid wooded areas with tall grass. If you are going for a hike, stay in the center of the trail to better avoid leaves, tree branches and tall grass.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Ticks are most active-and therefore most likely to bite-during May, June and July.
Always check your skin for ticks after you've been outdoors, even if you have used insect repellents.
Call your local health department or park services to find out about areas that have been reported to be tick-heavy.
Because it takes 12 to 24 hours for a tick to transmit Lyme Disease, the earlier that you can find and remove a tick, the better.