Like it or not, warm weather has arrived in North Central Oregon, and with the hot temperatures of summer comes comes the increased likelihood that you will come in contact with ticks. Reducing exposure to ticks is the best defense against Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and other tick-borne infections: DEET, showers, and tick checks can help stop ticks.

DEAR DOCTOR K: I live in a heavily wooded area, so I’d like to know the best way to remove a tick if you spot one on your skin.