The key difference between tick keys and makeshift removal methods like tweezers or fingers is their ability to minimize the risk of inadvertently injecting pathogens into the bloodstream.

The safest way is to utilize a tick removal kit or tick key to completely remove the tick, although you can also use household tweezers. To that end, it is a good idea to always carry a tick key ...

“To minimize the retention of tick parts onto the skin during removal, you should use fine-tip tweezers to grasp the tip as close to the skin surface as possible where the tweezers should grasp ...