Checking during and after being in areas where you may come in contact with ticks. Ticks love warm places and can bite you anywhere on your body.   Thoroughly check your whole body and help in checking your friends and family members, especially their back and places they cannot see. Use a flashlight and a magnifying glass to look closely. Ticks at the larva and nymph stages can be very difficult to see.   If you have a tick attached, use fine-tipped tweezers to carefully remove the tick by pulling it straight out slowly.  Read more about what to do if you get bitten by a tick.

Using an EPA-registered insect repellent is one of the most effective ways to reduce your risk of tick bites. Choosing the right type—and using it correctly—can make a significant difference in protecting yourself outdoors.

• Permethrin (for clothing and gear): Use permethrin to treat clothing, especially socks, shoes, and pants. This requires planning ahead—treated items should dry for at least 20 minutes before wearing. Permethrin bonds to fabric and provides longer-lasting protection. Learn more about how to use and purchase permethrin from Sawyer.

• Skin-applied repellents (EPA-approved): Use repellents containing picaridin, DEET, or oil of lemon eucalyptus on exposed skin. These are among the most effective options available. Picaridin is often preferred by some due to its lower odor and feel on the skin. 

• If you prefer a plant-based option, products like Tick Tock Naturals may be considered. These options are not EPA-registered and typically have a shorter duration of effectiveness (e.g., around 5 hours), so more frequent reapplication is needed.

• Repellent-treated clothing: You can also purchase EPA-registered insect-repellent clothing and gear from Insect Shield for added protection.

To help decide which option is best for you, review the pros and cons of repellent ingredients provided by the Global Lyme Alliance.