No Time for Ticks

In last week’s blog, we talked about some of the great benefits to enjoying the outdoors in Cortland during the summer. Just like preparing for the sun and other exposure to nature during hikes and outings, it’s important to prepare for an increasing issue in our neck of the woods: ticks.

Here’s the not-so-good news first: ticks are tiny bugs that can carry big diseases. According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), deer ticks hang out in shady, wetter areas close to the ground. They can be found in your yard, garden, and along the edge of the woods, among other places. In short, it’s easy to imagine a tick clinging on during a fun summer outing

The good news? You can take some simple steps to prepare you and your family for possible run-ins with ticks.

Here are a few from the DEC:

• Wearing light-colored clothes allows you to spot the tiny bugs before they cling on;

• Shoes that cover your feet (and not flip-flops or sandals), long-sleeve shirts and pants can keep ticks off your skin;

• Tuck your pant legs into your shoes, and your shirt into your pants to help reduce possible exposure;

• While you’re out, frequently stop for a second to check your clothes and skin for any bugs;

• Stay on the trail and stay away from woods or overgrown areas;

• Put up long hair;

• If possible, try and get a shower or bath in no more than two hours after being outside, so that way you can wash off and find any ticks that may have clung on;

• Do a final, full-body check for you and the kids (and pets, too) for ticks at the end of the day;

• Consider using insect repellent on your clothes, but be mindful of how you are using the repellent and be sure to read the label ahead of time.

If you or a child does land a tick, don’t panic! Take action to promptly and correctly remove the tick, and then monitor for symptoms.

Summer is a great time to get outside, so don’t let those tiny creepers get in the way. Take the proper precautions and get you and the fam outdoors to enjoy these summer days while we still have them!