DON’T LET THE BEDBUGS BITE – SOME TIPS TO KEEP THE BEDBUGS AWAY

Bedbugs are rapidly developing into an epidemic and as many experts have stated, the situation will get worse before it gets better. The Harvard School of Public Health says, "bedbugs are increasingly becoming a problem within residences of all kinds, including homes, apartments, hotels, cruise ships, dormitories and shelters."

Long Island Bedbugs may be found anywhere, anytime covering all social and economic groups. The best resorts and hospitals, even movie theatres and modes of transportation, can have infestations. “Simply put, you can never predict where they will turn up,” says. Lynn Frank BCE, Entomologist and technical director of Suburban Exterminating Co., Inc. If you are taking up residence in a college dorm and are concerned about bedbugs, there are things you can do to minimize the risk of an infestation.

Frank urges college students to arm themselves with facts about bedbugs and become aware of what they can do to protect themselves and their belongings.

What is a bedbug?
A bedbug is a small insect that feeds on the blood of humans and animals. They live in the folds and crevices of mattresses, bedding, clothing, and carpets, and can also be found inside backpacks, purses, box springs, furniture, electronic equipment, and other hidden, dark crevices.

How do I know if I have bedbugs?
Bedbugs usually leave red, itchy bite marks on the skin and may become severely inflamed. The pests can sometimes be spotted hiding in cracks and crevices during the day and may leave molted skins, feces and old eggshells in harborage areas. There may be a sweet, sticky smell.

TIPS TO KEEP THE BUGS AWAY
Wiemer has compiled tips on what to look out for and what to do in case you encounter these pests:

1. Determine if the University performs regular inspections of rooms.
2. Locate and properly identify the insect - Do not assume that “bites” are caused by bedbugs. Even medical professionals cannot positively identify bedbug bites.
3. DO NOT TAKE ACTION ON YOUR OWN if there is a confirmed identification of bedbugs - Do not panic and seek help immediately. The dorm and university should be informed and fully involved.
4. The university should have a professional pest control company respond immediately and begin bedbug treatment.
5. Do not throw items away or move out all belongings - This may spread bedbugs and transport them to a new location.
6. Encase the mattress and box springs - A properly designed encasement will prevent bedbugs from nesting inside and will make control measures (if they become necessary) easier and more effective. Encasements may be purchased at stores such as Bed Bath & Beyond.
7. Stay clean - The less “clutter” in the room, the less harborage sites for bedbugs.
8. Heat control – Wash and dry any items you think may be infested for at least five minutes on a hot cycle.
9. Store items in sealed plastic bags to contain or prevent items from infestation.
10. Inspect new items being brought into the room. Examine seams, zippers, corners for signs of bedbugs or live insects. Do not accept any item you think might be infested.

Go to www.suburbanexterminating.com for more information