Before you know it, the warm weather will be upon us, and you'll be itching to get outdoors. With the kids out of school, they'll be ready to enjoy sun-filled days out in the elements, too.

But, whether you're into hiking, backpacking, or just getting out and feeling the fresh air on your face -- it's important to know a few tips before you venture out.

Flickr/Eva 

There’s nothing more beautiful than taking a walk in nature, that is until you realize you’re covered in ticks - ugh! It's important to know how to protect yourself from these pesky creatures, as ticks carry deadly, dangerous diseases that can wreck havoc on our health. If you live in or near wooded areas, you should be especially aware of the dangers of ticks.

Luckily, there's one trick that easily removes ticks, should you get any on you. 

All you need for this tick removing trick is a lint roller. Be sure that you choose the one with adhesive layers, and bring it with you when you venture outside. Then, periodically give yourself a full roll down and see what you pick up.

You'll be surprised with how many ticks stick to the roller!

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In addition to utilizing a roller to keep yourself tick-free, using essential oils is a great way to repel the ticks. Used hand in hand with the lint roller idea, it's a great (and natural!) way to keep yourself safe.

There are several key essential oils that will help you keep the bugs at bay.

Lavender - This essential oil not only smells lovely, but its sweet smelling aroma will help ward off ticks, mosquitoes, flies and other insects. Rub a few drops on your legs, wrists, and anywhere else you're exposed. 

Lemon - Lemon essential oil contains the compound limolene, which is especially successful at keeping insects away. Be sure to dilute this oil before applying it to the skin, as it's extremely potent. 

Eucalyptus - This essential oil has the amazing ability to reduce tick bites and infections, according to a study published in the Journal of Medical Entomology. You may combine this oil with citronella oil for an all-purpose bug repellent. 

Pennyroyal - Pennyroyal is part of the mint family, and is a great tool for stopping bugs in their tracks, as it's toxic to insects. Dab a few drops on any exposed skin areas to create a barrier between yourself and the ticks. 

In addition to using essential oils, it's important to dress for "success" when heading outside. Opt for a hat to keep your head and neck covered, as well as light colors to help you see the ticks before they crawl onto your skin.

Be sure to wear a long pair of socks, as you'll want to tuck the legs of your pants into them. It may not be your usual look, but you'll be better prepared should a tick find its way to you! 

After you come inside from your time playing in the woods, place your clothes in the dryer on high for ten minutes. The heat from the dryer will kill any bugs hidden in the fabric of your clothes. Then, treat yourself to a hot shower to wash away any other bugs. You'll still want to look closely for ticks even after you shower, just to make sure you didn't miss any. 

Here's a video on how to make natural bug repellent right at home. 

With summer right around the corner, you'll soon need these tricks for when you're out in the elements. By using these natural solutions, you can be sure to keep yourself, your kids and your pets free from ticks and other dangerous bugs. 

Sources: David Wolfe, Mother Earth News, Leaf, Organic Facts, YouTube/Dr. Josh Axe  FB Image Credit: Instagram/lots_of_furkids