5 ways to protect yourself from tick bites

While most people think about taking precautions against overexposure to the sunwhile enjoying summer activities outdoors, experts say it's more important than ever this yearto also take precautions to prevent tick bites.

Biologists are reporting that tick numbers are increasing in this region due to global warming.

• Biologist seeing 'more ticks than we have in any other year'
• Lyme disease diagnosis a battle in Quebec, patients say

Ticks are linked toLymedisease,which can cause cardiacandnervous system complications in humans.

ShaunTurney,a PhD student in Entomology atMcGillUniversity, has these tips to offer onhow to protect yourself this summer:

1. Wear insect repellent with DEET. DEET should not be applied to infants. Children under 12 should use 10 per cent concentration DEET, while adults can use 30 per centDEET.
2. Wear long pants and long-sleeve shirtswhile walking in the forest.
3. Tuck your pants into your socks. It may look silly, but it's an effective way to protect your legs.
4. Stay on groomed trails while hiking. Avoid walking into theunder brush.
5. After your hike, check your body for ticks right away. Ask a friend to check your back. If you find one, pull it off with tweezers. There's no need to panic because it takes several days for a tick to transmit any diseases.

Tune in to CBC Montreal's Homeruntoday at 5:10 p.m. on Radio One in Montreal, or listen live here,to hear more fromTurney about this year's tick season.