Ticks find their hosts by detecting animals’ breath and body odors, or by sensing body heat, moisture, and vibrations. Some species can even recognize a shadow. In addition, ticks pick a place to wait by identifying well-used paths. Then they wait for a host, resting on the tips of grasses and shrubs. Ticks can’t fly or jump, but many tick species wait in a position known as “questing.”

While questing, ticks hold onto leaves and grass by their third and fourth pair of legs. They hold the first pair of legs outstretched, waiting to climb on to the host. When a host brushes the spot where a tick is waiting, it quickly climbs aboard. Some ticks will attach quickly and others will wander, looking for places like the ear, or other areas where the skin is thinner.

Depending on the tick species and its stage of life, preparing to feed can take from 10 minutes to two hours. When the tick finds a feeding spot, it grasps the skin and cuts into the surface. The tick then inserts its feeding tube. Many species also secrete a cement-like substance that keeps them firmly attached during the meal. The feeding tube can have barbs that help keep the tick in place. Ticks also can secrete small amounts of saliva with anesthetic properties so that the animal or person can’t feel that the tick has attached itself. If the tick is in a sheltered spot, it can go unnoticed.

• Use repellents that contain 20% to 30% DEET on exposed skin and clothing for protection that lasts up to several hours. Always follow product instructions.
• To remove a tick, grasp it with tweezers as close to the skin as possible and pull
  straight out, as shown.
• Bathe or shower as soon as possible after coming indoors (preferably within two
  hours) to wash off and more easily find ticks that are crawling on you.
• Conduct a full-body tick check using a hand-held or full-length mirror to view all
  parts of your body upon return from tick-infested areas. Check for ticks under the arms, in and around the ears, inside the belly button, behind the knees, between the legs, around the waist, and especially in the hair. Ticks can ride into the home on clothing, then attach to a person later, so carefully examine clothing and gear.

If you develop a rash, body aches and pains or fever within several weeks of removing a tick, see your doctor. Be sure to tell the doctor about your recent tick bite, when the bite occurred, and where you most likely acquired the tick.

Tickborne diseases can result in mild symptoms treatable at home to severe infections requiring hospitalization. Although easily treated with antibiotics, these diseases can be difficult for physicians to diagnose. Early recognition and treatment of the infection decreases the risk of serious complications.

Watch Out For Those Green Boxes When Mowing!

Pad-mounted transformers take the place of utility poles and feed underground electrical services to our businesses and homes. They enclose energized electrical conductors and distribute voltages from 75 to around 5000 kV and are highly hazardous when damaged.

As many transformers are located in residential areas, they may be part of the landscaping or areas we mow, making them susceptible to contact with mowers or tractors.

Allow at least 10 feet of clear space in front of transformers. The front is where the transformer’s door opens; the door is padlocked. The clearance space in front of the transformers is to allow utility workers access to the inside of the transformer.

At least 3 feet of space on sides and behind the transformers are necessary to prevent them from overheating and causing a service interruption. Like all types of transformers, they need plenty of air circulation around them.

Immediately report any damage to or oil leakage from a pad-mounted transformer to your utility company.

The picture above shows the result of a pad-mounted transformer that was struck by a riding lawnmower.

The competent person is required to evaluate site safety and resolve existing and potential hazards.  This workshop is an excellent opportunity to become qualified as a competent person (or stay current with the responsibilities).

The DNR has approved 0.6 CEUs for WD and WW only.

Who Should Attend:

This workshop is designed for city and utility employees and outside contractors employed by a city, or any working in a trenching and shoring situation.  The training received will cover the overall requirements of the law, including:

• Employee safety 
• Dealing with traffic
• Soil identification
• Emergency equipment
• Determining if shoring is needed
• Proper methods of trenching and shoring

Contact the contractors that work for your city / utility and encourage them to register and attend. 

Location:

IAMU Training and Office Complex

1735 NE 70^th Avenue

Ankeny, IA  50021

Click HERE for registration and brochure.