BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — With many people expected to spend time outside this Memorial Day weekend, Erie County health officials are urging residents to take steps to protect themselves from ticks.
The Erie County Department of Health says ticks are commonly found in wooded areas, tall grass and brush, and some can carry diseases like Lyme disease.
Dr. Gale Burstein, commissioner of the Erie County Department of Health, says one of the best ways to prevent tick bites is by covering exposed skin while outdoors.
“What we recommend that people do to prevent ticks is actually cover your skin because they like to jump on your skin,” Burstein said. “So, if you’re going out hiking in the woods or the grass, you want to make sure that you have yourself covered.”
Health officials also recommend doing a tick check after coming back inside.
“When you’re done hiking, when you come in, you want to make sure that you do a tick check because those ticks, even though they might jump on, say, your hands or your legs, they’re going to crawl up to dark warm places where they like to hangout,” Burstein said.
If you find a tick attached to your skin, officials say removing it as soon as possible can help lower your risk of getting Lyme disease.
Health experts recommend using tweezers to grasp the tick close to the skin, gently rocking it back and forth before pulling upward. After removal, disinfect the area with rubbing alcohol and place the tick in rubbing alcohol to kill it.
Officials also recommend using bug spray containing DEET and checking children and pets for ticks after spending time outdoors this holiday weekend.
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Gwyn Napier is a reporter who joined the News 4 team in 2025. See more of her work by clicking here.
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