Many of us enjoy hiking in the great outdoors, but it’s important to be aware of the risks posed by ticks, which can transmit serious illnesses such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
Luckily, there are several steps you can take to reduce your chances of being bitten by a tick and contracting a tick-borne illness.
Avoiding Ticks in the First Place
The best way to avoid a tick bite is to avoid potential areas where ticks live. You should wear light-colored clothing that provides full coverage so that you can spot any ticks quickly and easily.
Additionally, it’s best to stay on designated trails while hiking and avoid walking through tall grass or overgrown vegetation. If possible, stick to trails with gravel or wood chips instead of dirt, since ticks tend to live in soil and leaf litter.
Using Repellent Effectively
In addition, it’s always a good idea to use an insect repellent that contains at least 20% DEET (diethyltoluamide). This chemical helps repel insects such as mosquitoes and ticks for hours after application.
It’s important to apply the repellent directly onto exposed skin and clothes—not just onto your clothing—to maximize its effectiveness. Be sure not to miss any spots!
Checking for Ticks After Your Hike
Even if you do everything right while out on the trail, it’s still important to check for ticks when you get home from your hike; this should include all parts of your body including beneath clothing seams.
Any ticks that have latched on should be removed promptly using fine-tipped tweezers; grasp the tick firmly and pull straight back without twisting or jerking it in order to avoid leaving parts behind in your skin. If possible, try saving the tick so that you can have it tested later if needed.
Conclusion
Hiking is an excellent way to explore nature while getting some much-needed exercise; however, hikers must also remain vigilant and protect themselves against bugs like ticks that carry dangerous diseases like Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
By following the tips outlined above—including wearing protective clothing, using insect repellents containing DEET properly, and checking for ticks after returning home—you can greatly reduce your risk of getting bitten by a tick while enjoying time spent outdoors!