As temperatures rise and climate patterns shift, the tick season starts earlier, lasts longer, and reaches places it hasn't before, including right in your backyard. But the good news is that you can take simple steps to protect yourself. Consumer Reports has expert advice to help you and your pets stay safe.

Consumer Reports' Paul Hope says a few simple steps can help keep your yard tick-free. It starts with the grass. Ticks love tall grass and dark shaded areas, so CR recommends cutting your grass to about three inches. CR generally recommends mulching your grass clippings, but if you live in an area with a lot of ticks, it might be a good idea to bag them instead.

Blow away or remove leaves, leaf piles, and other debris that could be used as shade for ticks in your grass. If your

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