HOW CAN I PREVENT AN INFESTATION?
The greatest risk for encountering bed bugs appears to be while people are traveling, however it is becoming very common to encounter them in other public places as well. Regardless of the type of accommodations you stay at (5 star hotel, motel, camp, bed and breakfast), it is a good idea to inspect your room. Check around the headboard, mattress, box spring and adjacent area of the bed. Don’t forget to inspect luggage stands or other areas where suitcases are typically set down. Be aware of any unexplained bites you may find in the morning; that could be the result of bed bugs. Dark blood spots on sheets and bedding may indicate bed bug feeding. Bed bugs will sometimes excrete while they are feeding. This results in darker (reddish or brownish) spots or smears placed on bed sheets, pillowcases and mattresses, or in nearby areas. This material is composed mostly of digested blood and the stains care very characteristic. Inspect your luggage when you get home after a trip for any bed bugs that may have escaped your earlier attention – ensure to do this outdoors.
Other sources of infestation are associated with the scavenging of used furniture – curb side shopping, or used furniture shopping. Residents and tenants are strongly cautioned against “scavenging” beds and furniture that have seemingly been discarded and left by the curb for disposal, or behind places of business. Bed bug infestations are not limited to beds and mattresses, and they can be found on tables, drawers, and even electronics if these items were located in a bedroom or other place that could support an infestation.
Remember these insects are small (1/16” to 1/4”) and very flat, so they can move into very tight corners and cracks. In some infestations, they were found under picture frames, in between the glass and the frame! Be prepared to do some close inspection and when in doubt, consider having the inspection done by a pest control service.