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Did you know that nearly 82% of American adults plan to travel this year? With so many people hitting the road, it's more important than ever to prioritize safety, especially since over 30% of all fatal crashes occur between June and August. To help you and your loved ones stay safe on the roads this summer, here are some essential tips to keep in mind: 1. Plan Ahead Before you start your journey, plan your route and check the weather conditions. Ensure your vehicle is in optimal condition by scheduling a maintenance check-up to inspect tires, brakes, fluids, and lights. 2. Buckle Up Seat belts save lives. Data shows they reduce front-seat passenger deaths by 45%. Make sure all passengers, including children, are properly restrained in seat belts or appropriate car seats. 3. Avoid Fatigue Long hours of driving can lead to fatigue, impairing your ability to react quickly. Take regular breaks, switch drivers, and get adequate rest before starting your trip. 4. Stay Alert Pay attention to road signs, traffic signals, and other drivers. Avoid distractions such as texting, eating, or adjusting the music while driving. 5. Watch for Pedestrians and Bicyclists With more people outdoors during the summer, be vigilant for pedestrians and bicyclists, especially in urban areas and near parks. 6. Be Prepared for Emergencies Carry a roadside emergency kit with essentials such as water, non-perishable snacks, a flashlight, jumper cables, and a first aid kit. Program emergency numbers into your phone and keep a physical map in case of GPS failure. 7. Avoid Impaired Driving Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Designate a sober driver or use alternative transportation if you plan to consume alcohol. By following these safety tips and remaining vigilant on the roads, we can all contribute to reducing the number of traffic accidents and fatalities during the summer months. Stay safe and enjoy your travels!

Tickborne illnesses are a growing concern, especially if you love spending time outdoors. Whether you enjoy hiking, gardening, or simply lounging in your backyard, it's important to take steps to protect yourself from these tiny but dangerous pests. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to safeguard yourself from ticks in seven easy steps. 1. Be Aware of Ticks Ticks are typically found in wooded or brushy areas. Blacklegged ticks (also known as deer ticks) prefer wooded or brushy areas, while American dog ticks (wood ticks) are more common in grassy, open habitats and woods. Knowing the types of ticks and their habitats can help you stay vigilant. 2. Use Tick Repellent Choosing the right tick repellent is crucial. Opt for an EPA-registered product to ensure safety and effectiveness against tick bites. Products containing permethrin are highly recommended for use on clothing and gear, especially if you spend a lot of time in wooded areas. Remember, permethrin should not be applied to the skin. Standard DEET-based products are another effective option. Use products with no more than 30% DEET for adults and children, but avoid using DEET on infants under two months old. Always follow the manufacturer’s directions for application. 3. Check for Ticks Regularly Perform thorough tick checks at least once a day, especially after spending time outdoors. Ticks need to be attached for 1-2 days to transmit Lyme disease, so frequent checks can significantly reduce your risk. Bathing or showering after coming indoors can help wash off ticks that are not yet attached. Pay close attention to hard-to-see areas like behind your knees, the groin area, and armpits. If you find a tick, remove it immediately using tweezers to grasp the tick by its head, close to the skin, and pull outward slowly and steadily. Clean the area with soap and water afterwards. 4. Protect Your Pets Pets can also carry ticks into your home, so it’s important to use tick repellents for them as well. Consult your veterinarian for safe and effective options. Check your pets daily for ticks and remove any found immediately. A Lyme disease vaccine is available for dogs but doesn’t protect against other tickborne diseases. Regular tick checks and repellent use are still necessary. 5. Check Clothing and Gear Ticks can latch onto your clothing and gear. Before bringing items indoors, check them thoroughly for ticks. Tumble dry clothes and gear on high heat for at least 10 minutes to kill any ticks. If items are damp or need washing first, additional dryer time may be required. 6. Practice Basic Landscaping If you live in an area with ticks, some simple landscaping techniques can help reduce tick populations around your home. Keep your lawn and trails mowed short, remove leaf litter, and clear brush around your house and yard edges. Placing children's play sets in sunny, dry areas and creating a barrier (such as a three-foot wide border of wood chips) between your lawn and the woods can also help keep ticks at bay. 7. Stay Informed and Prepared Educate yourself about the presence of ticks in your area and stay updated on the latest prevention techniques. Utilize resources like the EPA’s website to find the best tick repellents for your needs. By staying informed and taking proactive steps, you can enjoy the outdoors while minimizing the risk of tickborne illnesses. Taking these simple yet effective steps can significantly reduce your risk of tickborne diseases. Stay safe, stay vigilant, and enjoy the great outdoors!