Concerned about ticks? You should be.
Recent statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate that cases of tick-borne diseases have increased twofold across the United States in the last 13 years. Adding to the alarm, a new tick species known as the East Asian tick has been discovered in New Jersey, which definitely makes me hesitant to step outside. (I reside in New Jersey.)
However, retreating indoors isn’t an option since it’s summer and I live near the beach. Instead, I can take proactive steps to minimize my risk of tick exposure, and you can do the same. (Also see: 5 Tips for Getting Your Home Ready for Summer)
Minimize tick-friendly environments in your yard
One of the most effective methods to manage the tick population around your home is by eliminating their preferred habitats. Keep grass cut, trim back shrubs, and incorporate a mulch barrier to dissuade ticks from infiltrating your yard. While this won’t completely eradicate ticks, it certainly helps lower their numbers.
Additionally, it’s beneficial to familiarize yourself with the types of ticks in your area. TickZapper offers an informative infographic that details common ticks, their habitats, the diseases they spread, and more. (See also: 6 Plants That Naturally Repel Mosquitoes)
Wear protective attire when venturing into wooded areas
While long pants can be uncomfortable in warm weather, tucking them into high socks while walking through the woods or tall grasses is a wise precaution. This approach minimizes the chances of ticks landing on your skin, particularly from the waist down in dense vegetation. Wearing light-colored clothing, such as khakis or white shirts, can make it easier to spot ticks. A hat is also recommended for woodland excursions. (See also: Top 5 Bug Repellents)
Implement deer-proofing measures for your yard
Deer serve as common carriers of ticks, potentially bringing them directly into your yard if you live in an area populated by deer. While it can be a pleasure to observe deer from your window, it is advisable to keep them and any other wildlife at bay if you aim to manage the tick population. A basic chain-link fence may not be effective, as deer can easily jump over it; thus, a privacy fence at least six feet tall is recommended. Additionally, applying deer repellent can aid in this effort.
According to Matteo Grader, a pest control specialist at Panther Pest Control, you can take greater strides to deter all kinds of wildlife.
“Eliminate anything that may attract wildlife to your yard—such as bird feeders, bird baths, and shelters or anything that enables mice and rats to hide,” he advises. “Keeping birds, rats, and squirrels away is vital because ticks can latch onto them and make their way into your yard.”
Utilize the assistance of other animals
You may find the sight of wildlife like raccoons, opossums, squirrels, and groundhogs unwelcome on your property, but Linda Giampa, executive director of the Bay Area Lyme Foundation, offers an ingenious way these creatures can aid your tick control efforts.
She recommends placing toilet paper tubes filled with cotton balls sprayed with Permethrin around your home. The premise is that nesting animals will take the cotton back to their dens, which will help eliminate the ticks they harbor. Permethrin also effectively kills mosquitoes, lice, and over 55 other common pests. (See also: 4 Easy and Affordable DIY Mosquito Repellents)
Stick to the center of the path when hiking
As you venture into wooded areas, strive to remain in the middle of the trail, avoiding any contact with low-hanging vegetation.
Keep children away from the backyard’s woodland edges
Relocate sandboxes, swing sets, and other play structures away from tree lines to minimize the risk of ticks finding their way onto your children.
Dry your clothes
After spending time outdoors, place your clothing in the dryer for 10 minutes on high heat to kill any ticks that may be hiding in your garments. Interestingly, it’s not just the heat that eliminates them, but the lack of moisture that they depend on for survival.
Also, inspect your outdoor gear carefully, as ticks may hitch a ride on camping equipment, backpacks, jackets, and other items.
Conduct a thorough body check
Ticks tend to hide in common areas of the body, including armpits, around ears, in the belly button, behind knees, on private areas, and especially on the scalp.
It’s essential to repeat a full body check three days after spending time in wooded environments.
“If you missed any ticks during the first inspection, they will have fed on you and become larger, making them easier to spot,” notes Giampa.
Inspect your pets
Ticks aren’t just brought in by wildlife; your outdoor pets like cats and dogs can also transport them into your home. Ensure your pets receive regular tick preventative treatment, and periodically check their fur, particularly around the ears, neck, and limbs, to ensure they are tick-free.
Apply a tick repellent on your skin
Use Permethrin on your clothing for additional protection against ticks (and other insects), and always apply a tick repellent to your skin before heading into wooded or dense areas.
Even though DEET has received some criticism as a chemical, it remains the most effective tick repellent available. However, it should be used cautiously by small children and pregnant women. Always consult a healthcare provider if you have any other concerns.
