How to find and remove ticks

What to do if you find a tick on the skin

Don’t panic. Ticks don’t normally feed for about 12-24 hours after attaching themselves during which time infection risk is small. Remove the tick as soon as possible.

How to remove ticks

The safest way to remove a tick is to use one of the proprietary tools available, carefully following their guidance. If you use tweezers use only a pair of fine-tipped tweezers (not flat ended ones). Get the tool between the skin and the abdomen of the tick. Pull upwards, slowly and consistently without squeezing the tick, until it lets go.

There is additional information on how to remove ticks on the NHS website

Do not crush or squeeze the tick since this may leave mouth parts and debris remaining in the skin which could cause infection later. Take your time; there is no need to rush or panic.  Do not attempt to remove the ticks by burning (i.e. do not apply hot matches, cigarette ends, etc.) and do not use such chemicals as nail polish remover, alcohol or petroleum jelly, etc.

Once the tick has been removed, dispose of it safely.  Do not squash them between your finger nails. Avoid touching removed ticks. Disinfect and clean the bite area with antiseptic and wash your hands as well as the tool used to extract the tick. So long as you remove and dispose of all ticks from both skin and clothing that should be the end of the problem.  Washing clothing at 30⁰C – 40⁰C does not kill ticks. A temperature in excess of 54⁰C is required.