"Don't let the bed bugs bite" is a popular nighttime
saying that most people don't take very seriously. However, bed bug
infestations are becoming more and more common. Recently, an infestation
broke out that has spread throughout New York City, even in upper-class
areas such as the upper East Side.
It was thought that bed bugs had been eliminated after
World War II. However, they are now becoming prevalent in many areas.
Experts blame the infestations on the increase in global travel and the
banning of many pesticides, such as DDT.
There is concern that these bed bug infestations may
continue to spread to other areas. In Texas, the bed bugs live in bedding,
furniture, luggage, clothing and the clutter that is left lying around on
the floor.
Before feeding, bed bugs are dark brown insects with no
wings. They have a crinkle shape on their shells. Once they have fed, the
bed bugs swell up and change to a dull red color. The bugs become larger
as they consume more human blood.
Getting Rid of Bed Bugs
Here are some guidelines published by the New York Daily
News to help remove bed bugs from a home.
* Store your food in glass or metal containers.
*
Hire a reputable pest control company.
* Seal up clothing in
airtight plastic bags until they can be washed. They must be washed in hot
water at a temperature of at least 140 degrees or dry cleaned.
*
Bag up loose objects until the exterminator has treated the home.
*
Ask the exterminator if they are using approved pesticides. The
exterminator will need to come back for follow-up treatments.
*
Don't spray your home with bug spray. It can cause the bed bugs to
scatter.
* Wrap mattresses or furniture before carrying them out of
the house to keep the pests from falling out in other parts of the
home.
* Dispose of vacuum bags after vacuuming affected
areas.
* Leave the home while it is being sprayed, especially if
you are pregnant or have medical problems. Small children should not be
present in the home when it is sprayed.
The best advice is to call an experienced pest control
company and allow them to treat the infestation. They will let you know
what steps you need to take other than having your home
sprayed.
