Tips for Tick-Proofing Your Yard and Staying Safe Outdoors
Tips for Tick-Proofing Your Yard and Staying Safe Outdoors
US · Published May 19, 2026
Consumer Reports has provided guidance on reducing tick populations in residential yards, as ticks and the diseases they carry have been spreading in recent years.
Ticks thrive in cool, shady areas, particularly in tall grass and damp spots.
To make your yard less inviting to ticks, experts recommend keeping grass trimmed to about 3 inches, clearing away piles of leaves and brush, and creating a three-foot barrier of dry wood chips or gravel between lawns and wooded areas.

Why It's Important?

Ticks pose a significant health risk as they can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Homeowners in areas with high tick populations are particularly at risk, especially if their properties border wooded areas. Proper yard maintenance and protective measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of tick bites and associated illnesses.

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