Be Aware

In NYS, you may encounter Deer ticks, Lone Star ticks, and Dog ticks. Each of these ticks can spread diseases that can cause serious chronic illnesses. Not all ticks carry bacteria or parasites that can make you sick, but as the diseases become more common to NYS, it is important to prevent all tick bites. Become aware of mosquitos as well while adventuring. In addition to the annoying itch a mosquito bite causes, there are several serious diseases that can be transmitted by a mosquito bite. In NYS, West Nile virus is a more common cause of illness from a mosquito bite.

NYS Dept of Health

To avoid ticks and mosquitos, wear long sleeves and pants. You are encouraged to use insect repellent (follow directions carefully) for either skin or clothing.

If you see a wild animal that is acting strangely keep pets and children away as it may have rabies. Let the animal wander away on its own. If the animal continues to threaten, get to a safe area and call an animal control officer who can remove the animal. Signs of a rabid animal: unusually aggressive or friendly, may make unusual sounds, have difficulty swallowing, drooling or frothing at the mouth.

Poisonous Plants It is common to see in the Finger Lakes Region a few poisonous plants such as; wild parsnip, poison ivy, oak, or sumac as well as giant hogweed. If you think you have been exposed to poison ivy, oak, or sumac, wash all exposed areas thoroughly but gently. If you can do this within ten minutes of contact, many times you can avoid an allergic reaction. Most cases of the rash can be treated with calamine lotion, cold compresses (applied 15-30 minutes several times a day), and antihistamines. Remember, if you do encounter any of these poison plants, be sure to clean your clothing, tools, and any gear you may have had with you as well. If you believe to have been in contact with wild parsnip or giant hogweed, wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and COLD water as soon as possible. Try to keep the exposed area away from sunlight for 48 hours. See a physician for any of the reactions if you feel it to be necessary. Poison Ivy. Look for leaves to be grouped in threes and pointed. Giant Hogweed. Lives in rich, wet soil near ditches, streams, and farms. It has umbrella-shaped groups of small white flowers, leaves with deep creases, and stems with white hairs and purple splotches.

Wild Parsnip. Found along the roadsides, field edges, and ditches. Leaves resemble large celery leaves along hollow, grooved, hairless stems, and are a yellow-green.

Poison Oak. Look for leaves to be grouped in threes and rounded.