Companies across the U.S. have reported a 71% increase in bed bug extermination calls from 2000 to 2005. And unfortunately no residence, business, hospital, school, or hotel is immune. In fact, as much as 20% of the Northeast reports having or knowing someone who is having a bed bug control problem.
Bed bugs are extremely prolific breeders. It has been calculated by the CDC that, if left uncontrolled, the introduction of just one female bed bug can lead to 5,000 more in the space of just six months. And once these pests invade a space, they are virtually impossible to control alone. If a single bed bug is spotted, it can be assumed that there are dozens, if not hundreds, more nearby.
In order to control bed bugs, one must first understand them. The name "bed bug" is a misnomer. Inhabitants may check beds for signs of the creatures and, seeing no evidence, believe they are safe from the pests. The fact is, because bed bugs feed at night, they do usually surround the bed. However, they can actually live almost anywhere.
WHAT DO BED BUGS LOOK LIKE?
Adult bed bugs are about 3/16th of an inch (4-5 mm) in size. They are oval and flat in shape which enables them to easily hide in cracks and crevices. They are rust-brown in color and turn reddish-brown after feeding.
WHY BED BUGS BITE
Bed bugs bite because they are obligatory hematophagous (bloodsucking) insects and can only survive from access to their food source, which is blood. Known as the "common bed bug" the best known species of bed bugs is that of the Cimex lectularius, which prefers to feed on human blood, unlike other species which feed on animals.
Bed bugs can go from several weeks to several months between feedings.
DO BED BUGS CARRY DISEASE?
Bed bugs prefer the thin skin around the feet and ankles, as this part of the body gives them quick access to blood. These bites typically itch, sometimes to the point of sleep loss. They can also become infected and cause allergic reactions that are sometimes severe.
However, research has found that while bed bugs can be infected with a multitude of pathogens they are not known for spreading disease.
HOW TO DETECT BED BUGS
One of the first signs of a bed bug infestation is the appearance of bites.
Physical signs of bed bugs include blood stains, fecal stains, and a musty odor. The most obvious sign is presence of the exoskeletons from the bed bugs themselves.
WHERE DO BED BUGS HIDE?
Detecting bed bugs can be difficult since they are nocturnal and remain secluded during the day. And due to their size and body shape, are able to survive inconspicuously in places such as mattresses, furniture, picture frames, and behind electrical outlets.
HOW TO PREVENT BED BUGS
Although there are no fool-proof methods to ensure one will never encounter bed bugs, there are some things that can be done to keep them at bay when traveling or spending time outside the home.
• Inspect the hotel room for possible bed bugs by examining the mattress, headboard, box spring and furniture prior to unpacking. If detected, insist on another room.
• Keep suitcases on a rack, not on furniture. Keep clothing in suitcases or sealed in traveling bags. Do not use dresser drawers. Keep personals stored in plastic bags.
• Place all items including luggage inside a sealed trash bag en route home to avoid any possibility of infecting car or truck.
• Immediately launder or dry clean clothing upon returning home.
• Keep mattresses and pillows in bed bug-proof encasements to help ensure against infestations.
Other general safeguards include avoiding used clothing and furniture unless the source is known or the items can be properly treated before bringing them home.
PROVEN BED BUG CONTROL EFFECTIVENESS
Although technological advances have been made in the fight against bed bugs, conventional bed bug extermination methods still prove to be among the most effective in eradicating infestations for several key reasons.
Firstly, the conventional bed bug method utilizes a crack and crevice treatment process designed to eradicate bed bugs in places most other treatment methods are not able to penetrate.
Secondly, the standard method for bed bug extermination employs the use of materials that not only kill existing bed bugs, but offer residual protection against future infestations.
AFFORDABLE BED BUG ERADICATION
Professional bed bug control is typically the only reliable, guaranteed method for ending an infestation. Studies indicate that this species is largely immune to many of the pest control treatments that are available to the public. In most cases, do-it-yourself products ultimately prove to be a time-consuming and hopeless task.
It is important to note that Newtown Termite & Pest Control, Inc. Is an actual certified pest control company that has been providing homes and businesses with bed bug extermination for nearly 30 years.
And as a certified exterminator we have access to all of the professional-grade products that are currently available for residential and commercial use. That is why we can offer our 100% assurance guarantee. It provides for follow-up treatments as needed to ensure your complete satisfaction.
Speak with a certified bed bug control professional who can answer all of your questions.
