Florida Bed Bug Control & Prevention
The resurgence of bed bugs in recent years has brought back new
meaning to that old saying "Sleep tight. Don't let the bed bugs
bite." Almost unheard of after World War II, the ban on DDT and the
increase in international travel are blamed for their reemergence
and while beds may be ground zero for these pesky bugs, they can be
found almost anywhere including hospitals, airplanes, movie
theaters and even department stores.
The Health Risks Associated with Bed Bugs
Unless a person has an allergic reaction to a bed bug bite, the
physical health effects consist of "itchy and "annoying" unsightly
red welts. These can be treated with an oral antibiotic or
hydrocortisone cream. While there is no evidence that bed bugs
spread any diseases, there can be lasting emotional and
psychological effects from an infestation.
Anyone can get bed bugs
Bed bugs are prolific little pests. An adult female can lay up to 5
eggs a day, which, under the right circumstances, can cause a small
infestation to become a large problem very quickly. Bed bugs will
hitch a ride in luggage, backpacks, on clothing or in shoes to
travel from place to place. They are impartial snackers, feeding on
any warm body regardless of status or cleanliness. Even the most
expensive hotels are reporting bed bug problems these days.
Identifying a Bed Bug Problem
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Red, itchy welts on your skin (a red dot with a lighter red ring
around it) are the most obvious sign that you have been bitten by a
bed bug.
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Look for small reddish brown dots (droppings and blood spots) on
bed linens.
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You may find eggs or molted skin on bed linens or the
mattress.
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Bed bugs themselves are often hard to spot, since they typically
come out at night. Look for a small reddish brown oval-shaped bug
about the size of an apple seed.
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In severe cases with heavy infestation, a sweet smelling "buggy"
odor may be noticeable.
How to avoid bed bugs
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Check the seams and backs of airline seats and movie theater seats
before sitting. Keep purses and backpacks off the floor and Store
your carry-on bags in the overhead compartment whenever
possible.
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When traveling, thoroughly inspect your hotel room BEFORE
unpacking. Look on the sheets, around the mattress and behind the
headboard and box spring for signs of bed bugs.
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Place luggage on dressers to avoid taking any stow-away bugs
home with you.
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Keep suitcases, brief cases or computers closed when not in
use.
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When you arrive home, check your luggage and belongings again to
make sure you did not take any bed bugs home with you. Wash all
clothing in hot water. You can even vacuum out luggage as an extra
precaution.
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Report any signs of bed bugs immediately. With the help of informed
citizens and trained pest professionals, we can hopefully make
these breakouts, once again, a thing of the past!
Bed Bug Protection from Hughes Exterminators
Hughes' bed bug control professionals protect homes &
businesses from pest infestations with the STEPS® Total Protection
System, an industry-leading process that utilizes Integrated Pest
Management. STEPS includes a full inspection of the home and
property to pinpoint pest control issues; identification of not
only the pest, but the true cause of the problem; and treatment in
the most environmentally responsible way to alleviate current
issues and to help prevent future recurrences.
If you suspect an infestation call our bed bug control experts
immediately at 1-877-GO-HUGHES for a comprehensive evaluation
of your home or business.