As the weather warms and more people head outdoors, it’s important to be aware of ticks and how to protect yourself, your family, and your pets.
Ticks: What they are and where they’re found
Ticks are small, spider-like insects commonly found in grassy, wooded, and bushy areas across British Columbia. While many tick bites are harmless, some ticks can carry diseases such as Lyme disease. Ticks are most active in the spring (March–June), but they can be present year-round when temperatures are above freezing.
They are typically found in tall grass, shrubs, forested areas, leaf piles, and woodpiles, as well as places with wildlife such as deer, birds, and rodents. In B.C., ticks that can carry Lyme disease are most commonly found in coastal and southern regions, including Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands.
How to protect yourself
When spending time outdoors:
Wear long sleeves, long pants, and closed-toe shoes
Tuck pants into socks and shirts into pants
Use insect repellent containing DEET or Icaridin
Stay in the center of trails and avoid brushing against vegetation After being outdoors:
Check your entire body, children, and pets for ticks
Pay close attention to scalp, underarms, and behind knees
Protect your pets:
Check cats and dogs for ticks after outdoor time
Ask your veterinarian about tick prevention products available for pets
Found a tick? Here’s what to do and when to seek help:
Remove the tick promptly using fine-tipped tweezers
Pull straight out without squeezing
Clean the area with soap and water
Early removal reduces the risk of infection. You can submit a photo of the tick for free identification through eTick Canada, an online tool that helps determine whether the tick may carry disease and what steps to take next. Educational resources like Tick Talk Canada also offer helpful, family-friendly information on tick safety and Lyme disease awareness.
Contact a healthcare provider if you develop symptoms within 30 days of a tick bite, especially:
Fever or chills
Fatigue
Headaches or muscle aches
A rash (sometimes a “bullseye” shape)
Stay informed, stay safe
Ticks are a natural part of our environment, but with simple precautions, you can significantly reduce your risk. Enjoy the outdoors safely this season!
For more information, visit:
· https://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/tick-borne-diseases
· https://etick.ca/
· https://ticktalkcanada.com/
Forbes Hall Health Services Group
Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at 9:20AM 
