Seasonal allergies are often associated with spring. Learn how to stop them in their tracks with these quick tips and common-sense solutions.

The most common signs and symptoms of outdoor allergies include:

• Sniffles and sneezing
• Red eyes or runny nose
• Itchy, irritated skin or even a rash

To reduce your risk of outdoor allergies, use these simple steps when working or playing outside this season:

• Wear gloves, a hat and a long-sleeve shirt while working in the yard. When finished, immediately remove all outer clothing and wash separately from other laundry. Follow up by showering and washing your hair as soon as possible.
• Wear a dust mask and eye covering when working with mulch, large leaf piles or burn pits.
• Clean equipment before storing or bringing inside.
• Clean pets before letting them in. Pets (and kids!) often bring in the very same things you are trying to keep out. Make it a priority to routinely brush pets before letting them back into the house. Instruct children to wipe their feet and wash their hands when coming in from a long day of play.
• Keep trees, shrubs and leaves well-maintained. Not only will it help reduce the risk of snow-related maintenance later, but a well-groomed yard is less likely to result in a run-in with potentially problematic pollutants, insects or other allergy triggers.