Lyme disease isn’t some boogeyman that overly strict camp instructors use to keep kids on a leash; it’s increasingly recognized as a significant concern for anyone who loves the outdoors or even just spending time in their own backyard. Carried by the incredibly small and hard-to-see black-legged ticks, this illness can potentially cause anything from a fever and exhaustion to more serious, long-term neurological issues if not identified early—or better yet, prevented. And now that the weather is becoming warmer, ticks are appearing in more places than ever, potentially increasing the risk of exposure. But here’s the good news: Sawyer, a name you’ll want to know, is offering innovative tools and practical knowledge to help you stay safe.

Why Lyme Disease Feels Bigger Than Ever

According to the CDC, approximately 476,000 Americans are diagnosed with or treated for Lyme disease each year. This potentially debilitating illness is caused by a bacterium called Borrelia burgdorferi, which is transmitted by ticks that are commonly found in wooded trails, grassy patches, and even city parks. Climate change may be exacerbating the issue, as it appears to be expanding the habitats where ticks can thrive, allowing them to appear in areas where they were previously uncommon. So now, even if you are in your own backyard, there’s a chance a tick could be crawling on your clothes or skin, potentially biting to feed on your blood and possibly transmitting Lyme disease.

Repellents That Can Help

Sawyer’s lineup includes two main products. First, there’s Permethrin Insect Repellent, a bug repellent that you spray onto your clothes, gear, or even your tent—not your skin—and it lasts for hours, helping to fend off ticks, mosquitoes, and other biters for up to six weeks or six washes. Studies suggest it can reduce tick bites by over 90%.

Then there’s Picaridin Insect Repellent, which is meant for your skin. This DEET-free option offers up to 12 hours of protection without that greasy feeling or strong odor that many similar products tend to have. It’s effective against ticks—including the ones carrying Lyme—yet generally considered gentle enough for kids and adults to use without significant adverse effects. Together, permethrin and picaridin can provide comprehensive, long-term protection.

More Than Just Products—Real Know-How

Sawyer’s work with Lyme disease prevention goes beyond their products. Their online knowledge base, available on their website, offers valuable information on how to spot ticks and how to keep them out of your life. Their blog is packed with advice, such as how to perform a thorough tick check, how to use repellents correctly, and even how to modify your yard to make it less tick-friendly. They’ll explain why tucking your pants into your socks is a helpful strategy, and how to remove a tick quickly, as removing it within 24 hours may lower the risk of infection.

How to Keep Ticks—and Lyme—Away

With Lyme cases on the rise, staying proactive is more important than ever. Here’s what Sawyer recommends:

• Gear Up with Sawyer: Treat your clothes with permethrin, and apply picaridin on your skin for comprehensive coverage.
• Check Yourself Out: After spending time outdoors, give yourself, your pets, and your gear a thorough check. Ticks often hide in spots like your hairline or underarms—don’t let them settle in.
• Dress the Part: Light-colored clothes make ticks easier to spot, and tucking in your clothes can help keep your skin off-limits to them.
• Stick to the Path: Avoid tall grass and bushy areas where ticks are more likely to be found.
• Tame Your Yard: Keep your grass short, clear out leaf piles, and take steps to eliminate tick hideouts.

A Safer Outdoors Awaits

Lyme disease might be on the rise, but it’s not insurmountable. With Sawyer in your corner—providing effective repellents, practical advice, and encouraging smarter prevention—you and your family can take steps to reduce the risk of Lyme disease.

And, if you want to learn more about tick protection or check out Sawyer’s latest tips, you can visit www.sawyer.com. Sawyer products are available at Bass Pro Shops, REI, Walmart, Amazon, and Sawyer.com.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, nor does it replace professional medical expertise or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, always consult with a physician or other healthcare professional.

Published by Anne C.