Remove ticks promptly with fine-tipped tweezers
Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible
Pull upward with steady, even pressure
Clean the bite area and your hands with soap and water or rubbing alcohol
Dispose of the tick by sealing it in a bag, wrapping it tightly in tape, or flushing it
Monitor the bite area for rash, fever, or other symptoms
Contact a healthcare professional if symptoms develop or the tick was attached for a long time
Treat pets with veterinarian-recommended tick prevention
Check pets, clothing, and skin for ticks after being outdoors
Shower soon after being in tick-prone areas
Wash and dry clothing on high heat after outdoor exposure
Keep grass short and remove leaf litter and brush
Create a barrier of wood chips or gravel between lawns and wooded areas
Use EPA-registered tick repellents on skin and clothing
Wear long sleeves, long pants, and light-colored clothing outdoors
Tuck pants into socks and shirts into pants in tick-infested areas
Reduce rodent and deer attractants around your property
Call a pest control professional for severe infestations
