A walk in the woods can be a lovely way to connect with nature and feel a sense of peace. Unfortunately, an excursion into the wilderness also comes with many dangers great and small of which to stay aware. Bugs, especially little parasites like ticks, lurk all over woodlands and fields. While these pets might be small, ticks can carry and spread Lyme disease and other illnesses to human beings they encounter. To avoid this, you need to know the basics about prevention.

Use Natural Repellents

The most effective form of tick control is utilizing the right repellent. Natural solutions are your best bet, as these options do not contain the same harsh chemicals that many traditional repellents rely on. Using a spray before you head off on an outdoor adventure can minimize the odds of ticks, mosquitoes, and other bugs.

Pay Attention

It is also a wise idea to stay alert and aware of your surroundings. Ticks tend to hide on branches and in overgrown grass and piles of fallen leaves. This means you should take proper precautions when you’re planning on running, hiking, or wandering through a forested region. Wearing shirts with long sleeves and pants instead of shorts can help minimize the odds of a tick clinging to your exposed skin. Hats can also help keep pests away from your hair, where many parasites tend to hide away.

Wash and Check

After you’ve returned home from your excursion into nature, you want to immediately get into the shower or bath. The Center for Disease Controlsuggests washing right away in order to spot any bugs that might have latched onto you while outside. Do a quick tick check before and after your shower, feeling around your scalp and body for any small, hard bugs that might be crawling about.

Exploring the outdoors can be a rewarding experience. Be sure to take the proper precautions with ticks and other pests to avoid any problems during your adventures.