1. BEWARE OF TICKS. Ticks do not hop, or fly, they crawl toward a host when detecting body heat, or carbon dioxide. Ticks live in weedy areas. Tall grass, leaf litter, low shrubs, underbrush, and field and trail edges are favored. In highly infected areas, lawns may have ticks.
2. WEAR LONG SLEEVES & LONG PANTS. Tuck the legs into your socks. Light-colored clothes make it easier to spot ticks.
3. STAY IN THE MIDDLE OF TRAILS. Don't brush against leaves and weeds or hike through the underbrush.
4. USE AN INSECT REPELLENT. Follow manufacturers directions.Look for ones containing 25-35% DEET.
5. CHECK FOR TICKS OFTEN. Crawling ones can be brushed off carefully.
6. PLACE CLOTHES IN A DRYER. A 1/2 hr. dryer high heat cycle will destroy ticks which might be hiding in clothing. the scalp, and behind the ears.
7. DO A THOROUGH TICK CHECK. Ticks crawl upward until they are stopped..Check legs, waistline, bra line, and armpits, and ask a family member to help check scalp, back, etc.
8. USE REPELLENTS AND CHECK YOUR PETS before they enter the house for crawling or attached ticks.
9. HUNTERS AND TRAPPERS SHOULD HANG ANIMAL CARCASSES AWAY FROM BUILDINGS. Put a bucket of bleach water under the animal to catch any ticks falling off. Wear rubber gloves when field dressing or handling meat to minimize chances for infection.