Fall is usually an excellent time to enjoy your backyard. The cooler temperatures and the spectacular leaves that turn orange, red, or yellow make hanging around a fire pit a lot cozier. But Fall is also that time of the year when ticks become active as they look for a warm place and body to overwinter. Ticks may be small, but these pesky pests present a significant threat to your health and well-being. The pests are responsible for up to 95 percent of all vector-borne infections in the country. The best way to control tick infestation in your home and around your property is by prevention.

The following are some of the effective ways to help you deal with ticks in the next Fall:

Keep your grass short

You can easily keep ticks at bay by undertaking routine lawn maintenance in and around your property. Tick populations thrive in long grass where they hang off the grass blades as they wait for their ideal host. When you keep the grass short, you will be creating a perfect buffer zone around your home and perimeter.

Get rid of debris

Lawn debris that is left lying around affords ticks an ideal home to overwinter. The piles of leaves, twigs, and sticks don't only offer a warm place for ticks to hide but are also a breeding ground for other pests such as rodents that can host the ticks. Strive to remove debris and clean up your lawn this Fall to keep ticks away from your home and family.

Keep wildlife out of your yard.

Wildlife typically hosts a significant population of ticks. When you allow wildlife to access your property, they will drop tick eggs in your yard without you even noticing. You should prevent wildlife such as birds, squirrels, chipmunks from accessing your property if you want to see a drop in tick population this Fall. One sure way to reduce wildlife is by decreasing the food options. Additionally, protect all veggies and fruits with proper fencing that deny wildlife access. Also, any food remains should be disposed of in sealed containers that prevent wildlife access.

Protect yourself

If you are working in the yard or undertaking hiking or a run in the woods, it is necessary that you protect yourself against ticks. You can unintentionally bring ticks in the woods to your home during your normal run. An effective way to protect yourself is by wearing bug spray clothing with at least 30 percent DEET. You can also dress up in light-colored clothes that will enable you to spot any hitchhiking ticks easily. Ideally, you can also wear a long-sleeved shirt and long pants covering a significant percentage of your skin. Additionally, tuck your pants into your socks and boots to make it difficult for the ticks to access your body.

Trim shrubs and trees

Overgrown shrubs and trees are also a perfect home for the overwintering ticks. If you have trees or shrubs that grow close to your house, you have reason to be concerned. The closer the branches to your buildings, the warmer they are, and the warmer the ticks will be. Besides, trees and shrubs that grow too close to the house allow the ticks to get quickly into your house. Trim all the trees and shrubs and ensure they are not touching your home.

Key takeaway

A single tick in your house is one too many. Ticks carry serious diseases such as Lyme disease. Lyme disease is a tick borne disorder affecting many NC residents.

However, with the above tips, you can rest assured your property is clear of pesky ticks regardless of the season you are. If you are in Charlotte, NC, and need help to control ticks and other pests out of your property, don't hesitate to contact Thomas Pest Control. We are a trusted pest control solution provider in Charlotte, NC, and its environs.