This year’s unusually warm winter brought extra sunshine, and along with it, the early arrival of tick season. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 12 diseases are transmitted by some types of ticks — including Lyme disease. Use these tips to reduce the risk of tick bites while maximizing your outdoor summer fun.

Read the rest of 10 tips to beat the ticks from MSNBC.

The #6 tip bears repeating!

“Ticks can ride home on clothing and pets, and attach to a person later, so carefully check your animal companions, coats and backpacks after visiting high-risk areas.”