ohio tick bite prevention

Despite their small size, tick bites can cause big trouble for you and your family! Remember to conduct thorough tick checks each and everytime you return indoors!

May

23

2012

With the threat of tick bites and the spread of Lyme disease on the rise, it is important for homeowners across the country to be prepared to battle ticks this year. Whether you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors or if you own pets, you will need to learn how to perform tick checks on yourself and your family members so that you can protect yourself from any potential tick bites and the spread of Lyme disease.

Although Lyme disease is not associated with all tick species, Ohio has seen a few black-legged ticks which are the most commonly known to have Lyme disease. The chances may be slim but if you are out in the woods or if you are traveling to an area known to have ticks with Lyme disease it is very important to be prepared. Once you get inside from your outdoor adventures the first thing you should do is a tick check on yourself and your family members to make sure that you are in the clear. Here is a step by step guide to perform an effective tick inspection:

  1. Take off your clothing and place it in the the bathtub so that any ticks that may be attached to your clothing cannot escape.

  2. Run your fingers over your scalp to feel for any lumps that could be ticks.

  3. If you have long hair then comb through it with a fine toothed comb to catch any ticks hiding in the hair.

  4. Use a full length mirror or a hand held mirror to inspect over the entire body for any black spots that could be ticks. If you do find a tick then carefully remove it with tweezers making sure to go slow and be sure not to leave part of the tick still latched onto the skin.

  5. Next shake out your clothing to be sure there are not ticks latched on. Then toss the clothes into the wash so that you can be sure to kill off any ticks that could have been hiding.

A tick free family will mean a very low threat of any tick borne illnesses including Lyme disease. There is no need to take away summer fun and outdoor activities out of fear of a tick bite. Just remember to be vigilant with tick checks and you and your family will be in good shape. Also, for your furry children (cats and dogs), make sure they stay treated with an effective tick treatment that can be purchased at your local veterinarian’s office.

If you have noticed an increase of tick activity on your property, Rose Pest Solutions can help. With our trusted home pest control services you can maintain a pest free home and property all year round. For pest control service in Cincinnati, Columbus or elsewhere in Ohio and Michigan, or to learn more about ticks in your area, please contact Rose today!