When in wooded or grassy areas, wear shoes, long pants tucked into your socks, a long-sleeved shirt, a hat and gloves. Try to stick to trails and avoid walking through low bushes and long grass. Keep your dog on a leash.
Use a natural insect repellent, such as one containing lemon eucalyptus oil, which studies have shown is a safe and effective alternative to DEET. Parents should apply repellant to their children, avoiding their hands, eyes and mouth.
Clear brush and leaves where ticks live. Keep brush trimmed. Locate woodpiles in sunny areas.
Check For Ticks
Be sure to check yourself, your children and your pets for ticks. Be especially vigilant after spending time in woods or fields.
Take A Shower
If you've been in tick territory, consider taking a shower after you've checked yourself for ticks. Showering can remove ticks that haven't yet attached to your skin.
If you discover a tick on your body, remove it as quickly as possible with tweezers. Grasp the tick near its head or mouth and pull carefully and steadily without crushing it. Then dispose of the tick and apply an antiseptic ointment.
Put clothes in a hot dryer for 10 minutes. This will kill any ticks before you put the clothes in your hamper.
Check Your Pets
Ticks can infect dogs and cats, too. And their fur can attract ticks. So inspect your pets before bringing them inside. Consult a veterinarian about tick-protection for your pets.
Get Tested
Don't assume you're immune. You can get Lyme disease more than once.
