Tick Bite Safety: What to Know and How to Protect Yourself
Spending time outdoors—whether hiking, camping, or just enjoying your backyard—is a great way to stay active and connected with nature. But with warmer weather comes an increased risk of tick bites, which can sometimes lead to serious health issues like Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. Fortunately, with the right precautions and prompt care, you can significantly reduce your risk and stay safe all season long.
Spotting the Risk: Where Ticks Live
Ticks thrive in:
- Grassy or wooded area
- Tall brush or leaf litter
- Outdoor pets (they can bring ticks into the home)
What to Do If You’re Bitten by a Tick
If you find a tick attached to your skin, don’t panic. Follow these steps:
- Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible.
- Pull upward steadily—don’t twist or jerk, which can cause parts to break off.
- Clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol or soap and water.
- Dispose of the tick by placing it in a sealed bag or flushing it down the toilet.
- Monitor the bite site and your health for several weeks.
When to Seek Medical Attention
You should visit Family First Urgent Care if:
- You cannot fully remove the tick or part of it remains embedded.
- A bullseye-shaped rash develops around the bite.
- You experience fever, chills, headache, joint pain, or fatigue within days or weeks of the bite.
- The bite becomes red, swollen, or shows signs of infection.
Tick bites can be scary, but they’re also manageable with quick action and the right care. At Family First Urgent Care, we’re here 7 days a week to evaluate tick bites, remove embedded ticks, and provide treatment if needed. Whether it’s peace of mind or proactive care, we’ve got you covered—so you can enjoy the outdoors with confidence.