Animals and humans alike may be excited to spend more time outdoors to mark the end of winter, but that means blood-sucking pests, like ticks, have more hosts to latch onto for feeding. As these pests can transmit harmful illnesses like Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, McCloud Services and the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) are encouraging those venturing outside more often to take proper measures in an effort to avoid contact with ticks.

“Ticks live in tall grass and wooded areas, waiting to grab onto passing hosts for feeding,” said Patricia Hottel, technical director. “Anyone spending time outdoors should be committed to protecting themselves against these pests because although they are small in size, the diseases they can pass on from a bite are quite dangerous.”

Follow these prevention tips to avoid the health threats associated with ticks

• Always apply an insect repellant containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus when spending time outdoors, and reapply as directed on the label.
• Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts and closed-toe shoes when outdoors. Choose light colored clothing that makes it easier to spot ticks and other insects.
• Keep grass cut low, as ticks are found in high grass. Remove weeds, woodpiles and debris.
• Inspect yourself and your family members, as well as your pets, carefully for ticks after being outdoors.