How to Get Rid of Ticks
No matter how big or small a tick is you should learn how to get rid of ticks. Lyme disease is the biggest concern, as it has been reported in every state. It is the most prominent in New England, some parts of the Midwest, and northern California. Deer ticks spread lime disease and are no bigger than the size of a pencil tip. Dog ticks are larger, and they carry Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
Preventive Measures
If you are going to spend time outdoors, take note of where you are walking or spending time. Shady areas with tall grasses, low tree branches, or a lot of leaves are prime areas for ticks. If you do walk through areas like these, think about tucking your pants into your socks. This will keep the ticks from getting inside your pant leg.
Also, wear light colored clothing and long pants. If you must wear shorts, try to wear tall socks. Always wear a hat, preferably broad brimmed. Long sleeve shirts are best. Of course, all of these clothing suggestions may not be practical or possible, so the key is to use a great deal of common sense.
Before coming inside, be sure to check yourself and others for ticks. Check your scalp, along the hairline, your ankles, and anywhere else a tick might have lodged itself. Check your pets often too, especially if you live in a tick prone area.
Removing a Tick
To remove a tick, sterilize a pair of tweezers with rubbing alcohol. With the tweezers, gently grab the tick as close to the embedded head as possible. Then, pull it straight out. Don't pull up or side-to-side, as you might break the tick in two and end up leaving the head lodged in your skin. The tick will likely still be alive, so dispose of it promptly by flushing it down the sink or toilet. Next, wipe the affected area down with an antiseptic wipe, and cover with an antibiotic ointment and band-aid.
