Latest local news, weather and high school sports from the Midlands

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) -- South Carolina Forestry Commission officials say it's time to watch out for ticks.

Wildlife officials say the warm winter may have the blood-sucking insects hungrier than usual for this early in the year.

Experts recommend people wear long pants and long sleeves when spending time in the woods, thick underbrush or other places ticks are often found.

They also suggest checking for ticks on yourself and others as soon as you get inside and washing clothes worn in the woods in hot water.

Ticks can carry several diseases, including Lyme disease. Both Lt. Gov. Glenn McConnell and U.S. Rep. Joe Wilson have been sickened by the illness in the past several months.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)