Mild winters and rainy springs increase tick populations, but things can be done to reduce the threat of ticks in and around the home.

Step 1: Keep debris and unkempt vegetation to a minimum. Trim back trees and shrubs, pull weeds and dispose of yard waste.

Step 2: Keep grass mowed between 2 and 3 inches tall throughout the season. Ticks will avoid large swaths of manicured grass, but grass cut too short discourages the presence of natural tick predators, such as spiders and ants.

Step 3: Keep watering to a minimum, especially in shaded areas. Ticks thrive best in cool, moist environments.

Step 4: Use cedar mulch to create barriers between wooded areas and open lawns. Spread cedar mulch around pet runs, play equipment and outdoor seating areas to discourage ticks.

Step 5: Wear light colored clothing and boots outdoors. For added protection tuck pants into boots, wear long sleeves and a hat. Keep long hair tied back.

Step 6: Clothes sprayed with permethrin can repel ticks for up to two weeks. For exposed skin, use natural repellants that contain lemon eucalyptus oil.

Step 7: When walking, stay in the center of the path. Avoid brushing up against vegetation where ticks like to hide.

Step 8: Place potentially tick infested clothing in a hot dryer for 10 to 20 minutes. Take a shower to rinse away ticks before they can attach themselves.

Step 9: If removing clothing is not an immediate option, use an adhesive lint roller to pick up ticks off clothing, pets, linens and even exposed skin.

Step 10: Look for small, dark spots in hard to see areas, behind ears, under arms, navels and everywhere else. Comb hair with a fine-tooth comb and check the scalp for small bumps. Do a second check before bed.

Step 11: Check pets for ticks before letting them inside and throughout the day. They will love the extra attention.

Step 12: When a tick is found, use tweezers or a tick removal tool to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull straight up. Once the tick is removed, wash the area with rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide. Monitor the spot for swelling or redness. Contact a doctor immediately if a rash or fever develops.

— Have a question? Email Linda Cottin at hardware@sunflower.com.