Staying on the boardwalks usually helps you avoid poison ivy. This three-leafed plant can grow as a shrub or as a climbing vine. In early summer, yellowish or greenish flowers with five petals appear and develop into small round off-white fruits by fall. The leaves also turn red in fall, providing a cue to many birds which feed on the ripe fruit.

Poison ivy leaves and stems contain oil, called urishiol, which can cause a red itchy rash or blisters several days after you touch it. This oil can be transferred from clothing, tools, and pets to your skin. The best protection is to avoid contact with poison ivy or to wear protective clothing.

Wash anything that may have come in contact with poison ivy before the oil touches your skin.

If you've been exposed to poison ivy, wash with soap and cool running water, preferably within an hour after exposure.