Abell Prepares Families for a Bed Bug-Free School Year
August 27 2024 - 8:34AM
As the back-to-school season approaches, Abell Pest Control,
Canada's leading pest management experts for 100 years, is drawing
attention to a significant issue for families: bed bugs. These
persistent pests can easily travel into homes on backpacks,
clothing, and textbooks and even spread through dormitories.
"Bed bugs can be a troublesome nuisance at any time of the year,
but they can be especially concerning during the busy
back-to-school season," said Aaron Soudant, Director of Service
Excellence and Quality Assurance at Abell Pest Control. "Our goal
is to help families and students identify early signs of bed bug
infestations and effectively implement preventive
measures."
Spotting Bed Bugs: What to Look For
Bed bugs are small, reddish-brown insects, approximately the
size of an apple seed, capable of causing significant discomfort
and disruption. Here's what parents and students should be on the
lookout for:
- Bites: Bed bugs have special mouthparts known as
piercing-sucking mouthparts and are adapted for feeding on
blood. When bed bugs feed, they inject saliva into the host,
which may cause an allergic reaction in some people and appear as
small itchy red bumps on the skin. These bites can appear in
clusters or lines and are typically found on areas exposed during
sleep, like arms, legs, neck, and shoulders.
- Signs on Bedding: Look for their excrement which leaves brown
to black stains on mattresses and linens, and bloodstains may be
visible where bed bugs have been accidentally crushed.
- Live Bugs: Check the mattress, bed frames, and other furniture
seams for live bugs or their shed skin.
- Eggs and Nymphs: Bed bug eggs are tiny, white, and oval-shaped.
Nymphs are smaller versions of adult bed bugs and are pale in
colour.
Preventing and Managing Bed Bugs
To ensure a bed-bug-free school year, follow these steps:
- Inspect items before bringing them into the home for signs of
bed bugs, including backpacks, clothing, and used textbooks.
- Wash and dry bedding and clothing on high heat to eliminate
potential bed bugs if there is a suspicion. Regular vacuuming of
floors and upholstered furniture can also be beneficial.
If you suspect a bed bug infestation, it's essential to contact
a professional pest management service. Abell provides
comprehensive inspections and effective treatments to eradicate bed
bugs and prevent future infestations.
For more information on bed bugs and how to protect your home
and family from them, visit Abell Pest Control. Discover expert
advice, prevention tips, and solutions tailored to keep bed bugs at
bay.
Eliana Pasquariello
Abell Pest Control
epasquariello@abellgroup.com