Do a thorough body check after being outdoors

There are plenty of myths surrounding tick removal. Do you know the proper way to remove a tick on your child's skin? The New York State Department of Health provides these instructions:

• Using tweezers, grasp tick as close to skin as possible.

• Pull tick in a steady, upward motion away from skin.

• Do NOT use kerosene, matches or petroleum jelly to remove tick.

• Disinfect site with soap and water, rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide.

• Record date and location of tick site. If rash or flu-like symptoms appear contact your health care provider immediately.

Disease risk is reduced if tick is removed within 36 hours.

For information visit health.ny.gov/.