* Don't walk in tall grass and leaf piles. Stay on trails when hiking.
* Use a repellent that contains 20 percent DEET on skin and clothing.
* Light colored clothing makes it easier to spot ticks.
* Wear long sleeves and long pants.
* Shower or bathe after spending time in wooded areas.
* Check pets, clothing and equipment for crawling ticks.
* Do a body check for ticks. Be sure to check behind the ears, under arms, behind knees, in the belly button and in the groin area.