What should you wear in the forest to protect against ticks? - briefly
Wear long, tightly woven pants and sleeves that are tucked into socks and boots, and apply permethrin to the fabric. Choose light‑colored clothing to make any attached ticks easier to see.
What should you wear in the forest to protect against ticks? - in detail
Wear long sleeves and long trousers made of tightly woven fabric such as denim, canvas, or synthetic blends. Light‑colored garments make it easier to spot attached ticks. Tuck shirt cuffs into pant legs and pant legs into socks or boots to eliminate gaps. Use gaiters or ankle covers when walking through tall vegetation. Closed, high‑ankle boots provide a barrier; pair them with thick, moisture‑wicking socks. Gloves protect hands while handling brush.
Treat clothing with a permethrin‑based repellent according to product instructions. Permethrin remains effective after several washes and kills ticks on contact. If untreated garments are the only option, apply a topical insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535 to exposed skin, but do not rely on skin repellents alone for leg protection.
Additional considerations:
- Choose fabrics that dry quickly to reduce moisture, which attracts ticks.
- Avoid loose‑fitting sleeves and pants that can snag and hold ticks.
- Inspect and remove any ticks promptly after exiting the forest; the earlier removal, the lower the risk of disease transmission.
By combining appropriate attire, chemical treatment, and thorough post‑exposure checks, the likelihood of tick attachment is minimized.