(WGGB/WSHM) -- As more people head outside in the nice spring weather, many are not prepared to combat bugs like ticks when they are outside.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s ‘tick bite tracker’ says that more people are heading to the E.R. from tick bites than usual, and especially here in the Northeast.

Experts say the long winter, along with heavy amounts of snow piled up, helped ticks survive. This has led to many deer and dog ticks becoming problems for people who want to spend some time outside this spring.

Tick season usually starts to peak in April, and a tick bite can cause swelling and itchiness, but more importantly it can transmit bacterial diseases. Of course, Lyme disease, often from deer ticks and dog ticks, (commonly found on pets), can give you rocky mountain spotted fever. Experts recommend that you avoid tall grass and damp environments, as they can be tick hotspots.

Jordan Russell, from American Pest Solutions in Agawam, says that in order to avoid getting bit, your clothing can be your first line of defense, “The best thing I would do to avoid ticks is to wear white clothing when you’re working outside, long sleeves especially. I know it’s hot, but it’s the best way to get yourself protected from ticks. I would make sure that before you go inside, while wearing white clothing, you’ll be able to see if there’s any ticks on you. Get those off you as soon as you can.”

It’s also recommended to spot check your scalp, behind your knees, under your armpits, and between your legs.