It’s that time of year again…tick season. Ticks can be extremely dangerous and sometimes lethal. If you, a family member, friend, or pet get bitten by a tick, do you know the proper steps to take to ensure adequate removal, when to go to the doctor, and more? Read on to learn more.

Ticks are notoriously difficult to remove. It is best to pull upward with steady, even pressure using fine-tipped tweezers. Grab the tick as close to the skin as possible. If you twist or yank the tick, the mouth can break off and remain embedded. You can usually pry the remaining tick out with tweezers. After removing the tick, thoroughly wash the affected area, and save the tick or take a photo for identification by a healthcare professional if you happen to get sick later. 

If you find a tick latched on to a human or pet, tip a Q-Tip in liquid soap (Dawn, for example) and start making small circles around the tick. The soap suffocates it, so they immediately let go of the skin and can be removed effortlessly.  

Never use petroleum jelly, fingernail polish, or a hot match to remove ticks from the skin. 

Ticks are seemingly impossible to smash under your shoe. The best way to rid them is by flushing them down a toilet, trapping them in a piece of tape, or burning them. Just because you remove them from your skin does not mean they will refrain from biting someone else. 

Ticks tend to migrate to the scalp or furry areas where they can hide well. It’s imperative to check your scalp regularly for ticks if you’ve been outside or spotted them on a companion.

If you aren’t completely able to remove the tick, a rash develops, flu-like symptoms appear, the bite becomes infected, or a deer tick bit you, you should seek medical attention immediately. 

Though most tick bites are painless and only cause minor symptoms, they can be deadly and should not be taken lightly. 

Whenever you are in the woods or within grassy outdoor areas, protect yourself by using sprays such as Cedercide, which help prevent bites naturally, without chemicals. 

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Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/