As temperatures rise across the country, many will head outside to soak up the warm weather. But before doing so, it’s important to remember that ticks will also be out and about looking for their next host as well. According to the CDC, there are approximately 476,000 new cases of Lyme disease in the U.S. each year. This May 10-16, American Pest Control is working with the National Pest Management Association to help educate consumers about the health threats posed by ticks during the inaugural Tick Awareness Week, an observance recognized by Chase’s Calendar of Events.

To reduce the likelihood of a tick bite, American Pest Control, in partnership with the National Pest Management Association, recommends the following:

• Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts and closed-toe shoes when outdoors, especially in wooded areas or tall grasses.
• Wear light-colored clothing to make spotting ticks easier.
• Apply insect repellent containing at least 20% DEET before heading outdoors.
• When hiking, stay in the center of trails and away from vegetation.
• Keep grass in your yard cut low and remove weeds, woodpiles and debris that can attract ticks and other pests.
• Inspect yourself, family members and pets carefully for ticks after being outdoors.
• Contact a licensed pest control professional to help reduce or eliminate ticks on your property.
  

If you’ve been bitten by a tick, it is important to stay calm and remove the tick immediately to reduce the chances of disease transmission. If you experience any adverse symptoms after being bitten by a tick, seek medical attention immediately.

 For more information about tick removal on your property, please visit www.ampest.com, call or text us at 706-546-1490