Tick Safety: Making Summer Outdoor Adventures Fun and Safe
Summer is the perfect season to embrace the beauty of nature and embark on exciting outdoor adventures. While exploring the great outdoors, it's essential to be aware of potential risks, such as the presence of ticks. These tiny creatures can transmit Lyme disease, a potentially severe illness that affects thousands of people each year. In this blog post, we'll discuss the risks of ticks, provide statistics on Lyme disease, and share playful yet practical strategies to mitigate these risks and stay safe while enjoying nature's wonders, with a special emphasis on essential oil safety and chemical repellent safety.
(p.s. Make sure you read to the end for a $10 off coupon to the Outdoor School Shop!)
Ticks and Lyme Disease: What You Need to Know
Ticks are small, blood-sucking insects that can transmit various diseases, with Lyme disease being the most common in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are approximately 30,000 reported cases of Lyme disease each year. However, the actual number of cases is likely much higher, as many cases go unreported or undiagnosed.
Lyme disease can cause a wide range of symptoms, including fever, fatigue, muscle and joint aches, and swollen lymph nodes. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the joints, heart, and nervous system, leading to more severe and long-lasting health issues.
Playful Precautions for Tick Protection: From Essential Oils to Chemical Repellents
The key to enjoying the outdoors while staying safe from ticks is to be prepared and take steps to minimize your risk. Here are some fun and effective strategies to help protect yourself and your loved ones from ticks and Lyme disease, focusing on essential oils and chemical repellents:
Tick Repellents: Your Adventure Armor
There are several types of tick repellents available, each with its unique method of action. Some of the most common repellents include:
1. Essential oils: Certain essential oils, such as lemon eucalyptus oil and geranium oil, have been found to
be effective in repelling ticks. These oils can be applied directly to the skin or clothing, but be sure to follow the label instructions for proper use and dilution. Plus, they'll leave you smelling great!
2. Permethrin/DEET: These synthetic chemicals are highly effective at repelling and killing ticks. Permethrin can be applied to clothing, gear, and even some fabrics used in outdoor spaces like tents. Do not apply permethrin directly to the skin. Deet can be applied directly to the skin, however it is not as effective against ticks.
3. Physical barriers: Wearing long sleeves, pants, and closed-toe shoes can help prevent ticks from reaching your skin. Tucking your pants into your socks and wearing light-colored clothing can also make it easier to spot ticks before they have a chance to bite. Embrace your inner adventurer with fun and functional clothing choices!
Proper Use of Tick Repellents: Safety First
It's essential to use tick repellents as directed by the manufacturer. When used correctly, these chemicals are safe and can significantly reduce your risk of tick bites and Lyme disease. The CDC recommends using Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), para-menthane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone.
Always follow the label instructions for proper application and reapplication, and be sure to apply the repellent to all exposed skin and clothing. Remember that some repellents, like permethrin, should only be applied to clothing and gear, not directly to the skin.
Essential Oils: Natural Tick Repellents with Proper Safety Measures
Certain essential oils, such as lemon eucalyptus oil and geranium oil, have been found to be effective in repelling ticks. These oils can be applied directly to the skin or clothing, but it's crucial to follow the label instructions for proper use and dilution. Just because something is “natural” does NOT mean it is safe. Essential oils are potent and should be used with care. Here are some safety guidelines to follow when using essential oils as tick repellents:
1. Dilution: Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or almond oil, before applying them to the skin. This will help prevent irritation and ensure the oils are safe to use.
2. Age restrictions: Some essential oils are not suitable for young children. For example, oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) should not be used on children under three years old. Always check the label for age restrictions and consult with a healthcare professional if you're unsure.
3. Patch test: Before applying essential oils to a large area of your skin, perform a patch test to check for any allergic reactions. Apply a small amount of diluted oil to a discreet area, such as the inside of your elbow, and wait 24 hours to see if any irritation occurs.
Chemical Repellents: Safe and Effective Tick Protection
Chemical repellents, such as DEET, picaridin, and permethrin, are highly effective at repelling and killing ticks. However, it's essential to use these chemicals safely and according to the manufacturer's instructions:
1. Application: Apply chemical repellents to all exposed skin and clothing, but remember that some repellents, like permethrin, should only be applied to clothing and gear, not directly to the skin.
2. Reapplication: Follow the label instructions for proper reapplication to ensure continuous protection.
3. Age restrictions: Some chemical repellents may not be suitable for young children. Always check the label for age restrictions and consult with a healthcare professional if you're unsure.
Recommended Products
We hope these strategies can help you to help protect yourself and your loved ones from ticks and Lyme disease, along with our recommended products from the Outdoor School Shop:
1. Ben's Clothing and Gear 24oz (https://outdoorschoolshop.com/Bens-Clothing-and-Gear-24oz/): This powerful permethrin-based tick repellent is designed to be applied to your clothing and gear, providing long-lasting protection against ticks. It's odorless and bonds to the fabric, ensuring that it stays effective even after multiple washes.
2. Nantucket Spider Extra Strength Tick Spray (https://outdoorschoolshop.com/Nantucket-Spider-Extra-Strength-Tick-Spray/): This DEET-free tick repellent spray is made with a blend of essential oils, including rosemary, geranium, cedarwood, and peppermint. It's effective at repelling ticks and has a pleasant, natural scent. The spray is easy to apply and can be used on both skin and clothing.
3. Ben's Tick Wipes (https://outdoorschoolshop.com/Bens-Tick-Wipes/): These convenient wipes contain 30% DEET and offer an easy way to apply tick repellent on-the-go. Perfect for throwing in your backpack or pocket, the wipes provide long-lasting protection against ticks and other biting insects.
4. Natrapel Picaridin Wipes (https://outdoorschoolshop.com/Natrapel-Picaridin-Wipes/): These individually wrapped wipes offer an easy and convenient way to apply picaridin-based tick repellent. They're safe for the whole family and provide up to 12 hours of protection against ticks and other biting insects.
5. Natrapel Picaridin Spray 3.4oz (https://outdoorschoolshop.com/Natrapel-Picaridin-Spray-3.4oz/):
This easy-to-apply spray contains 20% picaridin, an effective alternative to DEET that provides long-lasting protection against ticks. It's safe for the whole family and won't harm your gear or clothing.
6. Ben's Bandana with Insect Shield (https://outdoorschoolshop.com/Bens-Bandana-with-Insect-Shield/): This stylish bandana features built-in Insect Shield technology, which repels ticks and other biting insects. It's a fun and fashionable way to stay protected during your outdoor adventures.
Exclusive Offer: $10 Off at the Outdoor School Shop
To help you gear up for tick-free adventures, we're excited to share this exclusive offer: Get $10 off your purchase at the Outdoor School Shop! Just click the link and start shopping for tick protection products and other outdoor gear.
Conclusion
By understanding the risks of ticks and Lyme disease, taking playful precautions, and using the recommended products from the Outdoor School Shop, you can safely enjoy the great outdoors during the summer months. Stay vigilant, be prepared, and don't let ticks keep you from exploring the beauty of nature. And don't forget to take advantage of the $10 off offer to gear up for your next adventure!