In a recent survey from the National Pest Management Association, 41% of pest control professionals indicate encountering bedbugs in schools and daycare centers. Unfortunately, bedbug numbers are on the rise. As back to school time is here, we’ve included these TIPS to prevent bedbugs coming home from school.
INSPECT FOR BEDBUGS
These reddish-insects are about the size of an apple seed and are notorious for hiding in small cracks and crevices. They can hide on backpacks, clothing, books, and even in the student’s hair. Be aware of other signs such as left-over body shells or fecal matter (small black or red spots on clothing). We suggest performing and teaching your child inspections for bedbugs daily. If your child is old enough, it is good for them to be on the lookout for these insects playing hide-and-seek. If your student has a locker at school, teach them the importance of keeping it clutter-free so as to regularly inspect it as well.
SEPARATE AND HEAT-TREAT ITEMS FROM SCHOOL
Immediately remove clothing near the door or contained area (not recommended in a bedroom). A laundry room is ideal because the very next step is to wash and dry clothes on high heat immediately. It is helpful that children do not run around their rooms and beds with their school clothes on unless properly inspected. At the very least, DO NOT LEAVE BACKPACKS IN OR NEAR BEDROOM AREAS! It is a good practice to remove folders, electronic devices and books from backpacks at once and look them over and throw the backpacks in the dryer on high-heat for a half-hour. If items show signs of bedbugs that cannot be washed/dried (books), place in sealed bag and dispose of in a trash can – do not risk cleaning or removing the bugs because it is not worth it –Simon says.
IF YOU SUSPECT A BEDBUG PROBLEM-TIME TO CALL!
Only a professional pest control program can eliminate bedbugs. We suggest you play telephone right away and give us a call – our pest control technicians work to act fast to get an infestation inspected and treated. If you find that the infestation came from your child’s school it is best to contact the school administration immediately. Negative social stigma aside, your child’s school should have a bedbug detection and elimination plan in place. Your information may save other students and homes from a costly and health-threatening bedbug infestation.
Get the game up on bedbugs so your children only come home from school with good grades and not insects! Tag!
Flea Circus