FAMILIES are being warned of the dangers of ticks as the summer holidays approaches.

Public Health England is urging people to be aware of ticks and how to prevent infections from the diseases associated with them.

Ticks are small spider-like creatures, found in woodlands, grasslands, heathland and sometimes in urban parks and gardens.

They are most prevalent in spring, summer and autumn, and can transmit infections through their bites, including Lyme disease.

Even though Lyme disease is the most significant tick-borne infection in the UK, many people remain unfamiliar with ticks, the associated disease risk and tick bite prevention measures.

Dr Michael Baker, a public health consultant for PHE, said: “As we enter the warmer months, and increasingly venture outdoors, it’s important that people are aware of ticks and what actions to take to avoid the diseases they can carry.

“Tick bites don’t hurt, so they can easily go unnoticed.

"The best way to stay safe from ticks is to check your whole body for ticks after spending time outdoors, paying particular attention to your head, neck, and skin folds.”

Most children are bitten by ticks on the head, so it’s important to check behind their ears and around the hairline.

If you are bitten by a tick, it is recommended that tweezers or a tick tool be used to remove ticks, as other methods may lead to infection.

Dr Baker added: “Removing a tick within 12 to 24 hours will reduce the risk of being infected.”