Five common local tick species pose risks: The health department presented on the blacklegged (deer) tick, American dog tick, lone star tick, Gulf Coast tick, and brown dog tick, all of which they track locally. Each carries different risks. Blacklegged ticks spread Lyme disease, babesiosis, anaplasmosis, and other illnesses, while lone star ticks are linked to a red meat allergy known as alpha-gal syndrome, among other conditions.

Know the symptoms, including the rash: A bullseye rash can indicate Lyme disease, and a spotted rash on the wrists, ankles, or palms can signal Rocky Mountain spotted fever. But staff warned that many tickborne illnesses can show up as flu-like symptoms first — fever, fatigue, and joint aches, with no rash at all.

Tuck your pants into your socks: It might sound dorky, but staff confirmed it works. This approach for keeping them from reaching bare skin at the ankle is a straightforward way to prevent bites. Experts said light-colored clothing, EPA-registered repellent, and tick checks every 10 to 20 minutes outdoors are helpful strategies as well.

Free tick kits and identification are available: The health department hands out removal kits, including tweezers and instructions, at its Aurora office. Residents can also bring in a tick they've found for identification at no cost.