Tick Explosion?

I know that it is early in the season, but I have already found three ticks on my children and a couple on our cat. I was wondering if this is a particularly bad tick season or if we have just been unlucky.

Actually, the tick population has been increasing over the last decade or so and this year is predicted by parasitologists to see the tick population explode. Warmer winters, an increased deer population and the decreased use of insecticides have all contributed to the thriving tick population. Time spent outdoors and contact with pets can increase the chances of coming in contact with ticks. Treating pets and wearing tick repellant can decrease the risk of having a tick, however there is no sure fire way to avoid ticks so it is important to do daily tick checks and use proper removal procedures if a tick is found.