It’s officially June, which means it is time for lots of BBQ, lazy days at the lake, and… ticks? Sadly, after dealing with a long and treacherous winter, we must now deal with an upsurge of ticks and other dangerous pests. Here is why:

According to the National Pest Management Association (who offers both general pest control tips and information on the potential dangers of certain bugs in your home) and their bi-annual "Bug Barometer," the north-central part of the country - including South Dakota - is expected to see an increase in pest populations.
Flickr/wahoowins
Why the increase this year? Thanks to the aforementioned wet and cold winter, the grounds are now perfect for mosquitos and ticks to flourish, which - paired with the predicted warm and dry summer - will make for more insects than ever.
Flickr/oliver.dodd
How can you protect yourself and your family? Luckily, you do not need to stay indoors all summer, but it is recommended you stay extra vigilant when exploring the great outdoors.
Flickr/Jenny Salita

Related Stories

This Speakeasy Hidden Underground In South Dakota Is Perfect For A Date Night

This Speakeasy Hidden Underground In South Dakota Is Perfect For A Date Night

 Take A Drive To The Country To Dine At This Exceptional Rural Restaurant In South Dakota

Take A Drive To The Country To Dine At This Exceptional Rural Restaurant In South Dakota

 This 7.1-Mile Trail In South Dakota Is Covered In Wildflower Blooms In The Springtime

This 7.1-Mile Trail In South Dakota Is Covered In Wildflower Blooms In The Springtime
To stay safe from both ticks and mosquitos, the National Institutes of Health recommends wearing clothes that cover your arms and legs (especially if you’ll be around brush and shrubs), using insect repellants containing DEET, and thoroughly checking for ticks before going inside.
Flickr/Mike
Want to know a cool hack? Wear light colored clothes, which makes ticks easier to spot!
If you find a tick on yourself, your child, or your pet, grab a pair of fine-tipped tweezers and grab the tick as close to the skin as possible, pulling it steadily upward without any twists or jerks. Once it is off, clean the exposed area with rubbing alcohol.
Flickr/Fairfax County
While this news may sound off-putting, don't let it ruin the warm South Dakota fun!
Flickr/Jerry and Pat Donaho
Just make sure to exercise caution so that you and your family can have the happiest and healthiest of summers.

Now that you have your DEET and long socks ready to go, grab a friend and take one of These 7 Trails In South Dakota Will Lead You To Unforgettable Places.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles