Protect Your Yard from Ticks: Tips for a Safer Outdoor Space
Ticks and the diseases they carry are becoming more prevalent, and they are not just a concern in wooded areas or hiking trails. According to Consumer Reports, ticks can also thrive in backyards, particularly in cool, shady spots. To reduce the risk of ticks in your yard, it is recommended to keep grass trimmed to about 3 inches, clear away piles of leaves and debris, and trim tall grasses and weeds near walkways and play areas. Creating a three-foot barrier of dry wood chips or gravel between your lawn and wooded areas can also help prevent ticks from migrating into your yard. Additionally, discouraging animals like deer and mice, which often carry ticks, can further reduce the risk. Using EPA-registered insect repellents such as DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or picaridin is advised for personal protection. 
