1. Using a pair of pointed precision tweezers, grasp the tick by the head or mouth parts where it enters the skin. DO NOT grasp the tick by the body.
Etched or rasped fine-point tweezers may not be effective in removing deer ticks. Choose unrasped fine-point tweezers whose tips align tightly when pressed firmly together.
2. With a slow, smooth motion, pull firmly and steadily outward. DO NOT twist the tick. DO NOT apply petroleum jelly, a hot match, alcohol or any other irritant to the tick. This can cause the tick to burrow more deeply, and expel more bacteria into the blood.
3. Place the tick in a jar of alcohol to kill it.
4. Clean the wound with disinfectant. Monitor the bite for a rash for three to 30 days. Be alert for other symptoms of Lyme disease. If a rash or other early symptoms develop, see a physician immediately.
Safety tips for outdoors:
- Wear closed shoes and light-colored clothing with a tight weave to spot ticks easily.
- Inspect clothes and exposed skin frequently while outdoors.
- When walking or hiking, stay on cleared, well-traveled trails.
- Use insect repellents containing DEET (Diethyl-meta-toluamide).
- Avoid sitting directly on the ground.
- Keep long hair tied back, especially when gardening.
- Do a final, full-body tick check at the end of the day. Check children and pets.
