Keeping Ticks At Bay

Keeping Ticks at Bay: Insights from Evans Pest Control Technician

As Memorial Day approaches and the outdoor season kicks into high gear, it's crucial to arm yourself with knowledge about one of nature's peskiest inhabitants: ticks. As a seasoned technician at Evans Pest Control, I've encountered many of these tiny hard to see creatures. Let’s talk about what makes ticks tick and how you can protect yourself during your Memorial Day outdoor holiday weekend.

Understanding Ticks:

Ticks are small arachnids that feed on the blood of mammals, birds, and sometimes reptiles and amphibians. They thrive in grassy, wooded, and brushy areas, making them prevalent in outdoor environments, especially during warmer months where they sit on blades of grass and wait for an animal to brush by. Ticks transmit diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and anaplasmosis, making their presence a health risk and a cause for concern, particularly for those spending time outdoors.

Tips for Tick Avoidance:

Dress Appropriately: Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants tucked into socks, and closed-toe shoes when venturing into tick-prone areas. Some people think that light-colored clothing makes it easier to spot ticks, and that ticks might avoid certain colors like white, blue, and purple.
Use Repellents: Apply insect repellents containing DEET or permethrin to exposed skin and clothing. These products can help deter ticks from latching onto you.
Stay on Trails: Stick to cleared paths and avoid brushing up against vegetation where ticks may be lurking.
Perform Tick Checks: After spending time outdoors, thoroughly inspect your body, clothing, and gear for ticks. Pay close attention to areas such as the hairline, behind the ears, underarms, and groin.
Shower After Outdoor Activities: Taking a shower within two hours of coming indoors can help wash away any ticks that may be crawling on your skin.
Treat Pets: Ensure your pets are protected with veterinarian-recommended tick prevention products and regularly check them for ticks after outdoor outings.

Memorial Day Outdoor Activities:

Whether you're planning a backyard barbecue, a hike in the woods, or a picnic at the park, it's essential to remain vigilant against ticks. Memorial Day gatherings often involve outdoor activities where exposure to ticks is heightened. By following the tips listed above, you can minimize the risk of encountering these unwelcome guests and enjoy your holiday festivities without worry.

Schedule Your Spring Pest Control Maintenance

As you gear up for your Memorial Day celebrations, now is also an opportune time to consider scheduling your fall pest control maintenance with Evans Pest Control. Our comprehensive pest management services can help safeguard your home and property against a variety of pests, including ticks. Don't wait until you're dealing with an infestation—take proactive measures to protect your family and pets.

In conclusion, while ticks may pose a threat to outdoor enjoyment, armed with knowledge and preventative measures, you can reduce the risk of tick bites and tick-borne illnesses. By partnering with Evans Pest Control and staying informed about tick avoidance strategies, you can make the most of your Memorial Day weekend and future outdoor adventures. Stay safe, stay vigilant, and enjoy the great outdoors this weekend… but watch out for ticks.