Summer is all about outdoor fun—backyard BBQs, hikes, gardening, and playing with pets in the yard. But it’s also the peak season for ticks. That means we have to take a few extra steps to keep ourselves and our families protected. Ticks aren’t just annoying; they’re known carriers of Lyme disease and other serious illnesses. Let’s take a closer look at a few simple ways to reduce the chances of a tick encounter right in your own yard:
Keep the Grass Short
Ticks love tall grass and brush. One of the easiest ways to discourage them from hanging around in to keep your lawn well-trimmed. Regular mowing, edging, and trimming around fences and garden beds can make a big difference. If you have a wooded area or tall weeds near your yard, create a barrier with gravel or wood chips to separate it from your lawn and reduce tick migration.
Clear Out Debris
Ticks often hide in leaf litter, piles of wood, and other damp, shady spots. Clean up any yard waste regularly and be sure to stack firewood neatly in dry areas, away from your home. The more clutter-free your yard is, the fewer hiding places ticks will have.
Manage Wildlife Activity
Deer, mice, and other small animals commonly carry ticks. Keeping them out of your yard can help limit tick populations. Install fencing where necessary and avoid feeding wildlife near your home. You can also use deer-resistant plants to naturally deter larger animals from coming too close.
Protect Pets and Family
If you have any pets that spend time outside, be sure to check them regularly for ticks and use vet-approved tick prevention products. After you spend time in wooded or grassy outdoor areas, do a quick tick check on yourself and your kids, paying close attention to the scalp, behind the ears, and along waistbands and cuffs.
Tick prevention starts with smart, simple steps in your own backyard. If you’re serious about creating a tick-free zone in and around your home, we can help. At D & T Pest and Termite Control Inc., we offer provide treatments to keep your home safe from ticks all summer long. Give us a call at (508) 966-4470 to get started on your summer pest control.