Tick season is officially back in Illinois and if you're planning to spend any time outside, this is your reminder to be on alert.

You Might Be Seeing More Ticks in Illinois—Here’s Why

Ticks are typically active from April through September, with peak season hitting in May and June.  And with milder winters, they're showing up earlier and sticking around longer.  If it's about 45 degrees, they can be out and looking for a host.   Got room?

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The most common ticks you'll see in Illinois:

• American dog ticks
• Blacklegged ticks
• Lone Star ticks

You're most likely to find them in wooded areas, tall grass, leaf litter, and even along hiking trails or overgrown yards.  Basically, if it looks like a place you'd enjoy being outside, ticks probably like it too.

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The good news is there are some simple ways to protect yourself!  Wearing light-colored clothing can help you spot ticks more easily, and using bug spray with at least 20% DEET can go a long way.  If you're walking through taller grass, tucking your pants into your socks might not be a fashion statement, but it works.

And the most important step: Check yourself.  Every time you come inside, do a quick tick check on yourself, your kids, and pets.  Ticks can be tiny and easy to miss.  Don't rush it.  Also, check your gear, since they can hitch a ride on clothing or bags, too.

If you do find a tick, remove it right away using fine-tipped tweezers, grabbing as close to the skin as possible.  I've had to do it a handful of times on my ex's dog and it wasn't fun!