Bed bug prevention is especially important at long-term care and medical facilities where there are dozens or hundreds of beds. A bed bug infestation of one person or a single bed won't be contained for long, and will quickly multiply to every person, bed and chair in the facility.
The National Pest Management Association points to nursing homes, hospitals and long-term care facilities as being particularly vulnerable to bed bugs. Because of this susceptibility, there are federal laws that require these types of facilities to properly "maintain an effective pest control program so that the facility is free of pests and rodents."
One of the reasons why medical or long-term facilities use pest control services for getting rid of bed bugs is because, as the CDC explained, the blood-sucking pests can cause physical, mental and emotional damage. Bed bugs don't carry disease, but they can cause allergic reactions, secondary infections, anxiety, stress and insomnia.
Although pest management firms come to the rescue in order to eliminate these annoying parasites, bed bugs are extremely tough. They can survive in a wide range of temperatures, fit through thread-sized holes, lay five eggs a day and survive for months without food, the NPMA explained. Bed bugs' resilience underscores the importance of preventing them from establishing a foothold in any long-term care or medical facility.
The first step to prevention is to stop bed bugs from coming into the facility, so it's important to look at the ways that bed bugs usually enter. Although people don't usually bring their own mattresses to long-term care facilities, it doesn't mean they can't bring another furniture or clothing item that may have bed bugs on it. A professional and a trained canine can be used to check patients' belongings. Secondhand or found items should be banned from the facility. And, in addition to checking bedding and clothing, be sure to check luggage and plush items like stuffed animals, which may have been infested, the Cuyahoga County Bed Bug Task Force recommended.
The NPMA advised long-term care facilities to regularly and thoroughly clean areas where bed bugs are most likely to be found (in and around the bed). The association also recommended the facility make sure any cracks or crevices are completely sealed - bed bugs don't need much room. It's also important to keep laundry away from bedding before it's washed, so that if there is an infestation, it'll have a harder time spreading.
As the weather cools, you'll probably see fewer pests than you did during the warmer months, but that doesn't mean they're all gone just yet. Some insects can actually come out in full force during the autumn, while others might seek refuge in your warm home. Here are some key tips to keep in mind as fall gets underway:
It's finally here - sweet, sweet summertime at last! But has your time outside already been rudely interrupted by swarms of pesky bugs trying to take a stab at you? This season, let's say no more to swatting, slapping or clapping at these insects who seem to be tormenting innocent outdoors enthusiasts every year. Fortunately, the solution isn't as chemical ridden as you might think. As it turns out, some of your favorite scents are insects least favorite.
Not every creature that visits your property is a dangerous nuisance. Many animals actually offer a number of benefits that keep your yard healthy. Predatory animals, in particular, actually offer natural pest control. Here are five common suburban creatures that can help keep more difficult or annoying animals at bay:
The customer is always right, and this is especially true if he or she is complaining about seeing a mouse or cockroach. Pests have no place in your organization, as bugs and rodents will turn away potential business or even lead to a possible lawsuit. Keeping your company protected requires a proactive approach. Work with a pest removal specialist to identify the best ways to stop creatures from infesting your business. Here are just a few ideas for successfully mitigating and preventing any issues:
You might see an influx of rodents at this time of year, because as the weather cools mice and rats seek warmth anywhere they can find it. Unfortunately, that often means inside residential homes. Many homes may experience rodent infestations at this time of year more than any other. Whether they're getting into your garage, basement or kitchen, it's important to put a stop to them before the problem becomes too serious and requires the intervention of a professional pest control agency.
Though many bugs and other creatures can cause serious headache for homeowners or anyone managing a garden, there are plenty of critters that actually serve a number of benefits. These may promote healthy plant growth, provide aesthetic beauty or even prey on pests that can otherwise cause damage.
Spring is here, and if you're lucky enough to have some vacation time saved up - or you're a college student - it's likely that you'll be taking advantage of the warmer weather and going on a spring break trip. That means finding an excellent destination and enjoying some much needed time for relaxation. However, those sighs of relief could turn into shrieks of panic instantly if you find out that your hotel room is infested with bed bugs, especially because it's likely that they'll end up coming home with you.
