Tick Season is Here: What You Need to Know to Stay Safe

Part of spending time in nature is being aware of the risks present and being prepared for them. While we have never had an issue with ticks in our area we still try to educate the children and families about ticks as the weather changes and ticks start to become more present. Also, all our facilitators have been trained and equipped with tick picks. Here is what you need to know:

What Is Tick Season?

Tick season refers to the time of year—typically from April to October—when ticks are most active. These tiny, blood-sucking arachnids thrive in warm, humid environments, often hiding in tall grass, wooded areas, leaf litter, and even urban parks.

Several types of ticks exist, but the black-legged tick (also known as the deer tick) is particularly concerning because it can transmit Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, babesiosis, and other tick-borne illnesses.

Where Are Ticks Found?

Ticks are commonly found in:

• Grassy fields and overgrown areas

• Wooded trails and forests

• Leaf piles and garden beds

• On pets and wildlife that bring them indoors

How to Protect Yourself

Prevention is key. Follow these steps to reduce the risk of tick bites:

• Wear long sleeves and pants, especially when in tall grass or wooded areas.

• Use insect repellent that contains DEET (if you feel comfortable), picaridin, or permethrin (for clothing).

• Stay on marked trails and avoid brushing up against vegetation.

• Do a full-body tick check after spending time outdoors. Don’t forget hidden areas like behind the knees, under arms, and in hair.

• Shower within two hours of coming inside to help wash off any ticks not yet attached.

What To Do If You Find a Tick

1. Remove it promptly and properly. Use fine-tipped tweezers or a tick pick to grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible. Pull upward with steady pressure—don’t twist or jerk.

2. Clean the bite area with rubbing alcohol or soap and water.

3. Save the tick in a sealed bag or container for identification if symptoms develop.

4. Monitor for symptoms like rash, fever, fatigue, or joint pain, and consult a healthcare provider if needed.

5. Let us know! We have not found a tick yet on anyone but please keep us informed if it does happen.

Here are some great resources you can use:

Lyme-Disease-Fact-Sheet.pdf

Download PDF • 188KB