Tics are out in Mass.
Take steps to keep them out of your home and yard.
Ticks like damp, shady areas, so keep grass cut short, remove leaves and brush, and keep bushes trimmed to let sunlight in and moisture out.
make your yard less inviting to wild animals, which can carry ticks.
Keep wood piles away from your house and bird feeders off the ground.
And avoid plants that attract deer.
If your yard backs up to woods or meadows, lay a three-foot barrier of woodchips, mulch, or gravel.
Ticks won't be able to cross.
Play it safe when you're outdoors.