WSJ|2 minute read
Ticks Are Taking Over: How to Protect Yourself This Summer
This summer, ticks are on the prowl like never before. With one of the worst tick seasons in years, it's crucial to know how to safeguard yourself and your pets.
- Why the Surge? Warmer weather and increased humidity have created a perfect storm for tick populations.
- Protect Yourself: Dress smart, use repellents, and check yourself regularly.
- Yard Safety: Keep your lawn tidy, use barriers, and consider professional treatments.
- Stay Informed: Stay updated on tick activity in your area to reduce risks.
Here's the full scoop.
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Why the Tick Apocalypse?
Welcome to summer 2025, where the sun is blazing, the barbeques are sizzling, and oh yes, the ticks are out in full force. This isn't just a minor inconvenience; it's a bloody war zone out there! With conditions ripe for tick reproduction—thanks to unseasonably warm weather and high humidity—these little bloodsuckers are multiplying faster than you can say 'lyme disease.'
How to Keep the Little Buggers at Bay
First off, if you're planning on frolicking in the great outdoors, gear up! This isn’t a casual stroll in the park; it’s a battlefield. Here’s your game plan:
- Dress for Success: Think long sleeves and pants, because showing skin is just asking for trouble. Tuck those pants into your socks and consider wearing light-colored clothing—ticks are easier to spot on lighter shades.
- Repel the Creeps: Slather on that bug spray with DEET or picaridin. Don’t skimp—apply it generously on exposed skin and clothing!
- Check Yourself: When you come back from your adventure, strip down and inspect for ticks. They love to hide in the crooks of your knees and the nape of your neck, so get in there and be thorough!
Your Yard: A Tick-Free Zone
Don’t think you’re safe just because you’re chilling in your backyard. Nope, those little bastards can invade your sacred space too. Here’s how to reclaim your turf:
- Keep it Trimmed: Overgrown grass and weeds are tick havens. Mow that lawn and trim those bushes like your life depends on it—because it just might!
- Create Barriers: Use wood chips or gravel to create a tick barrier between your lawn and the woods. It’s like building a fortress to keep the invaders out.
- Professional Help: Sometimes, you need to call in the big guns. Consider hiring pest control to treat your yard with professional-grade pesticides.
Staying Informed and Aware
Knowledge is power. Keep an eye on local news and health advisories about tick activity in your area. The more you know, the better prepared you’ll be to dodge these creepy crawlies.
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