How to remove a tick

Related graphic: How to protect your yard from ticks

1.
Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin's surface as possible.
2.
Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Don't twist or jerk the tick; this can cause the mouth-parts to break off and remain in the skin.
3.
If mouth parts break off remove them with tweezers. If you are unable to remove the mouth easily with clean tweezers, leave it alone and let the skin heal.
4.
Once tick is removed Thoroughly clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol, an iodine scrub, or soap and water.

Source: US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

James Abundis/Globe Staff