URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) — The Urbana Park District is warning community members to be “tick aware” when visiting parks.

On Thursday, the park district said they have received reports of pets getting ticks after visiting parks in the community. Since then, staff members have put up additional signs, which warn residents about the dangers associated with ticks.

In the meantime, there are several things you can do to reduce your risk — and your pet’s risk — of contracting a tick-borne illness.

• Stay on the pathways in the parks and natural areas
• Do not go off into the brush and other tall grasses
• Check yourself and your pets for ticks after visiting parks or natural areas
  • This includes your ears, hair, belly button, legs, clothes and outdoor gear
  • Check your pets ears, tail, eyelids, under legs, under collar, between toes
• Shower after being outdoors
• Watch your pet for changes in behavior or appetite if you think they were bitten
• Remove any ticks immediately

You can learn more about ticks, and how to prevent tick bites or how to remove ticks on the Champaign-Urbana Public Health District’s website. The park district also said that anyone with additional questions can call the Planning and Operations Department at (217) 344-9583.