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So how do ticks get on you? Ticks don't jump or fly—you can pick them up on your clothes, skin, or hair just by brushing against a leaf or blade of grass they are sitting on. Once they hitch a ride on you, they will look for a place to attach—like on the backs of your knees, your armpits, in your hair (or near your hairline), or behind your ears. Don't get tick'ed off! You can still enjoy being outside with your friends, camping, or hiking. Just make sure you follow these Tick Tactics to keep ticks off of you!


Know your environment

Be aware of areas where ticks live and thrive. If you're hiking, try to walk in the center of the trail. If you need to take a break, sit on a rock instead of on the ground (follow these rules in your backyard too!). Also, don't be afraid to ask questions! If you're in a park, ask a ranger or guide about where ticks may be lurking—so you can stay clear!


Raise your protective barrier






Tick Checks

When you get back from your hike or from playing outdoors, do a tick check. Check your clothing to make sure there aren't any ticks on it. Ask your parents to help you check the places you can't see like your back, the top of your head, and in your hair. If you wear light-colored clothing, you can see ticks more easily and brush them off before they become attached to your skin. If you find one tick, keep looking—there may be others that you didn't see the first time around. Ticks are hard to see—nymphs (ticks that are not quite adults yet) are the size of a pinhead, and adults are smaller than a sesame seed.

tick measure

To find out how to use repellents and other info on ticks, you and your parents should check out the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Lyme disease Home page.


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