Pest Control & Exterminator Services

DON'T BRING HOME UNWANTED SOUVENIRS

Vacation season is here and a few common sense rules will keep you from bringing home some unwanted souvenirs in the form of bed bugs.

First, protect your luggage and belongings. We carry several different types of sprays you can use on your luggage both before and after traveling and can be purchased at our office. If you do pick up bed bugs, you already have an active barrier that they must cross killing them before they can invade your items. Pack your items in Ziploc bags and only take out what you need. Place dirty laundry in a separate sealed bag.

When checking into a hotel room never put your luggage or belongings directly on the bed. If possible leave your luggage outside or put into the bathtub or shower until you have done a thorough inspection of the bed. Pull back the sheets and inspect the mattress and box spring paying attention to the seams and roping along the edges, lift up the mattress and check between the mattress and box spring. Look for the actual insects or "staining". If possible using a flashlight, check behind pictures, mirrors and the headboard. Immediately report anything suspicious to the management. When you have satisfied yourself that there are no signs of bed bugs, bring your luggage in and place it on the luggage rack (which you should have thoroughly inspected). Keep this rack located toward the foyer area of the room and away from the bed. Remember it's better to be cautious. Don't be afraid to ask at the front desk before checking in if they have had any problems with bed bugs. Many states are passing legislation requiring disclosure of bed bug infestations and treatments. If you see something suspicious, report it to the front desk immediately.

When returning home, unpack outside or in a garage area, clothing should be immediately placed in plastic bags and sealed shut for transporting to the laundry area. Wash and dry using the highest heat the garments can tolerate. The plastic bags should be disposed of in an outside trash receptacle. Items that cannot be washed, such as shoes, can be cycled through the dryer. Thoroughly examine your luggage and other bags for any signs of bed bugs and vacuum out your luggage. Empty your vacuum bag and dispose of in outside trash receptacle or sealed container.

If you see anything suspicious, get the sample and give us a call. We are always happy to identify something. Most of all have a safe and happy vacation.