Parents Beware of Ticks and Mosquitoes Lurking This Halloween!

Trick or treat... don't give mosquitoes and ticks something good to eat! It's Halloween and parents and kids everywhere are gearing up for a night of costumes, candy, and fun! But while you’re planning the perfect route for trick-or-treating, don’t forget about those pesky ticks and mosquitoes that can pose a risk to your little ghouls and goblins. Here’s how to keep your kids safe while they enjoy the spooky festivities.

Choose Costumes Wisely

When selecting Halloween costumes for your kids, consider how they can help protect against ticks and mosquitoes. Opt for long sleeves and pants to cover as much skin as possible. If your child’s costume includes a dress or shorts, layer with leggings or long socks to minimize exposed skin. This reduces the chances of ticks and mosquitoes finding exposed areas to bite.

Consider wearing light-colored clothing, as ticks are easier to spot on lighter fabrics. Additionally, avoid costumes with excessive frills or loose fabric that can provide hiding spots for insects.

Apply Natural Repellents

Before heading out for trick-or-treating, apply a natural insect repellent that effectively protects against ticks and mosquitoes on your children's exposed skin and clothing. Look for products containing essential oils like lemon eucalyptus or citronella. Always test a small area on your child's skin first to ensure there’s no allergic reaction.

Reapply the repellent as directed, especially if trick-or-treating for extended periods. Avoid applying repellent on children's hands, eyes, and mouth.

Stick to the Path to Steer Clear of Ticks and Mosquitoes 

Plan your trick-or-treating route to avoid areas with tall grass, wooded areas, and dense vegetation, as these are prime habitats for ticks. Mosquitoes are often found near standing water, so steer clear of any puddles or ponds for a safer Halloween night. 

Encourage your kids to stick to sidewalks, and well-lit pathways and avoid shortcuts through wooded areas or overgrown fields while trick-or-treating. 

Check for Ticks After Trick-or-Treating 

After returning home from trick-or-treating, perform a thorough tick check on your kids. Pay close attention to areas where ticks like to hide including, behind the ears, underarms, and around the waist. If you find a tick, remove it promptly with fine-tipped tweezers, grasping it as close to the skin’s surface as possible.

Have your kids shower and change into clean clothes as soon as they get home to wash off any ticks that may have hitched a ride. You should also inspect their costumes and clothing for any hidden ticks.

Educate Your Kids About the Dangers of Ticks and Mosquitoes 

Teach your children about the dangers of ticks and mosquitoes, so they understand the importance of staying safe. Explain what to look for and how to avoid areas where these pests may be hiding. Making them aware can empower them to make safer choices while enjoying Halloween.

Happy Halloween from Pure Solutions! We hope you have a fun and safe night! Interested in all-natural tick and mosquito property treatments? Click here for a free quote! 

Sources: 

Ldoadmin. (n.d.). Learn the steps to take for Lyme disease prevention. LymeDisease.org. https://www.lymedisease.org/lyme-basics/ticks/personal-protection/

Protect Yourself from Ticks. (2024). Cornell College of Architecture and Life Sciences. https://cals.cornell.edu/new-york-state-integrated-pest-management/outreach-education/whats-bugging-you/ticks/protect-yourself-ticks