To remove an embedded tick, one should use tweezers to grasp the tick as close as possible to the skin, then pull with slow, steady pressure in a direction perpendicular to the skin. Other methods have been suggested, such as placing a recently extinguished match on the tick or pouring alcohol on the tick. These are not thought to be as safe or effective. {ref: Needham, GR. Evaluation of five popular methods for tick removal. Pediatrics 1985; 75:997-1002}