Children may not notice a bite. Pets can carry ticks indoors. And after an afternoon outside, it’s tempting to think that a quick shower is all the protection you need. But ticks can be surprisingly persistent, which is why prevention and careful tick checks matter.

Enjoy the Outdoors—But Take Precautions

You don’t have to avoid nature to protect yourself from ticks. A few simple habits can significantly reduce your exposure.

Before heading outdoors, use an EPA-registered insect repellent and consider wearing long sleeves, long trousers, and light-colored clothing that makes ticks easier to spot. When hiking, stay toward the center of established trails and avoid brushing against tall grass, dense vegetation, and leaf litter where ticks are more likely to wait.

And remember: your precautions shouldn’t end when your outdoor adventure does.

Make the Tick Check Part of Your Routine

After coming indoors, shower as soon as practical and carefully check your entire body for ticks. Pay particular attention to hidden areas such as behind the knees, along the hairline, in the armpits, around the waist, and behind the ears.

Children and pets need the same careful inspection. Run your hands through your pet’s fur and check areas where ticks can easily hide.

If you discover a tick attached to your skin, don’t panic. Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp it as close to the skin as possible, then pull upward with steady, even pressure. Avoid twisting or crushing the tick during removal.

Don’t Ignore What Happens Next

Finding a tick doesn’t automatically mean you’ll become ill, but it’s worth paying attention to how you feel afterward. In the days or weeks following a bite, watch for symptoms such as unusual fatigue, fever, headaches, muscle or joint aches, or a new rash.

If you develop concerning symptoms after a tick bite or possible tick exposure, contact a healthcare professional and mention the exposure.

Ticks may be tiny, but awareness can make a big difference. With a few simple precautions, regular tick checks, and prompt attention to unusual symptoms, you can enjoy the outdoors while reducing the risk these small parasites can pose.