Enjoying Spring & Avoiding Ticks

This weather has got me out and about in the sunshine on trails and in gardens. Unfortunately, Long Island has some truly terrible tick problems. But don't let that keep you cooped up!

Here’s a reminder of how to avoid tick bites while out of doors:

adult lonestar tick

1. Dress to protect: Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks. Tuck your pants into your socks to prevent ticks from crawling up your legs.

2. Repellent helps: I use organic essential oil-based organic bug spray. Look for cedar, lemongrass, peppermint, and/or rosemary in the ingredients list.

3. Stay on trails: When hiking, stay in the center of trails and avoid walking through tall grass or brush.

4. Check yourself (and pets): Pay close attention to areas such as the scalp, behind the ears, and under the arms.

5. Shower: Rinsing within two hours of being outdoors can help wash away any unattached ticks.

6. Toast clothes: Throw them in the dryer for a short cycle after being in tick-risky environments to kill any hidden passengers.

7. Regular spraying: Organic treatments on your property every 2-4 weeks greatly reduces your exposure to tick bites.

Of course, if you have been bitten by a tick, remove and keep it if possible (a folded piece of scotch tape works) for identification. Contact a doctor if you experience fever, rash, or other symptoms.

Contact us for a free organic tick control estimate.