|
How To Avoid Bed Bug Infestations 1) Know what a bed bug infestation looks like. It can be difficult to determine whether you have a bed bug infestation unless you know what you're looking for. You should not only have a good idea of what bed bugs look like, but also knowledge of several key indicators that an infestation exists. Some things to know:
- You will not likely see blood or red stains unless an engorged bed bug has been crushed. You are more likely to see dark or black stains or smears on a mattress or sheet from digested blood that has been excreted
- Bites, itchy spots on your skin, and sometimes blood may indicate bed bugs.
- As Bed Bugs develop from one stage of life to another, they leave behind tiny shed skins, or exoskeletons that may be identified with a magnifying glass in the folds and creases of the bed.
2) Know when you are most at risk for infestation. For an infestation to occur, bed bugs must be introduced into an un-infested environment from an infested one. As a result, bed bugs are most likely to be introduced upon returning from travel or when overnight guests are entertained. They can also hitch a ride into your home on items purchased second-hand, or furniture and bedding that is delivered to your home. Immediately after any of these events have taken place would be the ideal time to inspect for live bed bugs and other signs of infestation. Also be on the lookout for these signs several weeks following travel. 3) Use a Bed Bug Encasements/ Mattress Cover. Early detection is the most important factor to be successful at bed bug control. One way to protect yourself and make detection easier is to use a bed bug mattress cover that has been specifically designed for bed bugs. Encasing the mattress and box springs prevents an infestation from growing by denying bed bugs access to the hard-to-treat inner areas. This all important function of bed bug mattress covers serves a dual-purpose: Effective Prevention. You will easily be able to spot and remove new clusters of bed bugs on the smooth cover, thus preventing new infestations. - Effective Control. Any existing bed bugs that happen to be inside the mattress cover at the time of encasement are now entombed and will eventually die.
4) Act Immediately. Bed Bugs are extremely difficult to get rid of. If you detect or suspect infestation, call a professional pest control operator immediately so they can inspect your home and help you determine where to focus control efforts. For Control, see our Bed Bug Control Page.
|
Norcross, GA 30093
