Lyme disease is a growing concern for families and outdoors enthusiasts alike. Cases appear to be increasing across the country due to the expanding tick populations, and it’s increasingly important to take steps to help keep your family safe. Fortunately, with the right knowledge, strategies, and products, it’s possible to reduce the risk of tick bites and Lyme disease more effectively than in the past. In that mission, one of your valuable allies is Sawyer, a trusted name in outdoor protection, offering reliable bug-repelling solutions that you can feel confident using. Here’s what you need to know:

Understanding the Risk: Why Lyme Disease Prevention Matters

Lyme disease is caused by the Borrelia burgdorferi bacterium, which is transmitted through the bites of infected black-legged (deer) ticks. If left untreated, it can potentially lead to symptoms like joint pain, fatigue, and, in some cases, neurological issues. Children may be particularly vulnerable since they often play in grassy or wooded areas where ticks tend to thrive.

To help safeguard your family, especially your children, it’s wise to take preventive measures when they’re playing outside. This includes using repellents, wearing protective clothing, checking for ticks regularly, and making your surroundings less tick-friendly.

Essential Lyme Disease Prevention Strategies for Families

Use Sawyer’s Tick-Repellent Products

A key way to help reduce the risk of Lyme disease is by using reliable tick repellents. Sawyer offers two standout products that are known to perform well against ticks:

• Sawyer Permethrin Insect Repellent: Unlike typical bug sprays, permethrin is applied to clothing, shoes, and gear—not skin. Once treated, it can help repel ticks for up to six weeks or six washes, potentially reducing tick bite risks significantly. Some studies suggest that permethrin-treated clothing may reduce tick encounters by over 90%.
• Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent: Considered a safe and effective alternative to DEET for the whole family, Sawyer’s 20% Picaridin insect and tick repellent offers protection from disease-spreading ticks (such as those carrying Lyme disease and tick-borne encephalitis) and mosquitoes (which may carry West Nile, Dengue, and Zika viruses) for up to 12 hours.
• MAXI DEET Insect Repellent: Suitable for use on exposed skin in areas with high bug density, Sawyer’s low-odor MAXI DEET bug repellent provides up to 10 hours of protection against mosquitoes, ticks, chiggers, fleas, and gnats, as well as the diseases they may carry.

Perform Regular Tick Checks

Ticks are tiny and can be difficult to spot, so it’s important to check yourself and your kids thoroughly after outdoor time. Focus on areas like:

• Behind the knees
• Under arms
• Around the waist
• In and around the ears
• Along the hairline and scalp

Additionally, remember that pets can carry ticks indoors, potentially transferring them to people inside.

Dress for Protection

Your clothing choices can make a difference. When venturing into grassy or wooded areas, consider:

• Wearing long sleeves and pants.
• Tucking pants into socks or boots to limit skin exposure.
• Opting for light-colored clothes to make ticks easier to spot.
• Enhancing protection by treating gear with Sawyer permethrin.

Stay on Clear Trails and Avoid High-Risk Areas

Ticks tend to thrive in tall grass, leaf piles, and dense brush. To minimize exposure:

• Stick to clear, maintained trails.
• Avoid grassy or overgrown areas.
• Keep kids away from tall grass or underbrush.

Protect Your Home and Yard

Ticks often thrive in shady, damp areas with tall plants. To make your yard less inviting:

• Mow grass short.
• Clear leaf litter and woodpiles where ticks and rodents may hide.
• Add a wood chip or gravel barrier between wooded areas and play spaces.
• Treat gear, pet bedding, and dog collars with permethrin.

Know the Symptoms and Act Fast

Even with precautions, bites can still occur. If you find a tick:

• Use fine-tipped tweezers to grab it close to the skin.
• Pull straight up with steady pressure—avoid twisting or squeezing.
• Wash the bite area and your hands with soap and water.
• Monitor for Lyme symptoms such as fever, rash (often a bull’s-eye pattern), fatigue, or joint pain.
• Consult a doctor promptly if symptoms arise.

The Importance of Proactive Prevention

While Lyme disease can have serious consequences, the good news is that it can often be prevented with the measures outlined above. A key part of prevention is equipping yourself with effective repellents, which are available at a reasonable price on Sawyer’s official website, www.sawyer.com. The site also offers a wealth of information on how to protect yourself and others from tick-borne illnesses. Sawyer products are available at Bass Pro Shops, REI, Walmart, Amazon, and Sawyer.com.

By staying informed and taking proactive steps, you can help reduce the risk of Lyme disease for your family and enjoy the outdoors with greater peace of mind.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, nor does it replace professional medical expertise or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, always consult with a physician or other healthcare professional.

Published by Anne C.