Hunting and fishing offer unique experiences in nature, but they come with potential risks. Two big risks that come with the outdoor experience include tick bites and poisonous plants. As a guide, it is your responsibility to provide a fun, safe experience for your clients. Follow these tips to create a safe outdoor adventure.
Tick bite prevention
As a hunting or fishing guide, you often lead your clients through tall grass, woods, and shrubs. When possible, walk in the center of trails to avoid wooded or brush areas with high grass. Be sure to inform your clients of the terrain before entering so they can opt to use insect repellent. Many insect repellents will indicate on the label if the spray will repel ticks.
Instruct your clients to dress accordingly before your adventure. Wearing long sleeves, pants that are tucked into socks, closed toe shoes, and hats can prevent ticks from reaching the skin. After being outdoors, remind your clients to perform a thorough tick check. Be sure to also check pets and gear closely. For extra precaution, tumble dry all clothes on high heat for 10 minutes, to eliminate any potential ticks that may have been missed.
Remember that knowledge and proactive measures are key to enjoying the outdoors safely. For more information on tick bite prevention, symptoms, and treatment visit Healthline.com.
Poisonous plants
Learn to recognize common poisonous plants such as poison ivy, oak, and sumac so you can steer clear. According to the National Institution for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), if you see leaves of three, then let it be. While this general rule of thumb is beneficial for steering clear of certain poisonous plants, it may not be applicable to all of them.
The more you familiarize yourself with common poisonous plants, the better you will be at detecting them. You can also download plant identification apps to your phone that use the camera to identify plants and flowers.
For hunting and fishing guides, a proactive approach to safety is crucial. By taking precautions to prevent ticks and avoid poisonous plants, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy nature safely.
Check out the pictures below to see the most common poisonous plants in the Midwest.
When in doubt, call 800-222-1222, Poison Help, which connects you to your local poison center for additional information and treatment options. For more help identifying poisonous plants in your area, visit the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Sources
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
