In recent years, many Canadian cities have seen an increase in bed bug infestations, due primarily to: bed bugs developing immunity to insecticides and an increase in international travel.
What are bed bugs?
Bed bugs, also known as: "red coats," "chinches," or "mahogany flats", are small insects, about the size of an apple seed, that feed on human blood by piercing the skin with a long beak. Bites from bed bugs usually occur on the upper torso, hands, arms, the neck and face but are not known to carry disease. Bed bugs usually come out at night, as they are nocturnal, and are fast moving insects that multiply quickly, invading homes in Guelph, Ontario. All homes in the Guelph area are susceptible to an infestation, which is why it is important to exterminate the risk at the first sign of invasion.
Where are bed bugs found?
Bed bugs are not specific to one area in Guelph and can be found in residential areas, schools, movie theatres, hotels, universities and hospitals. Because of their flat body, bed bugs are able to get behind or inside most things. When they first invade a location, they tend to migrate to mattresses or box springs because they are difficult to detect in these places. In an advanced infestation bed bugs can be found in bunches in dark, hidden spaces such as: outlets, wall voids, cracks, curtains and small cervices associated with bedroom furniture, tables, chairs and couches. Due to their quick movement, it can take as little as three months for a home to be completely infested and this is the point where the bugs become visible.
Although bed bugs are difficult to spot because of their elusive nature, and the fact that they are nocturnal, they can leave definite markings around Guelph, Ontario residences which will alert you of their presence. One of the most visible signs of an infestation is dark spotting or staining on clothing, sheets and mattresses. Other signs include: eggshells, molted skins or excrement found in small crevices, the most common being mattresses; red itchy bumps on the body, and- in severe cases- a sweet, stale odor can be detected.
Bed bug infestations are difficult to control as well as to exterminate. To avoid spreading bed bugs to other Guelph residences, it is important to request the help of a qualified pest control technician. Before the extermination the Guelph house owner will need to prepare their home and vacate the property for up to 10 hours after the extermination has taken place. Technicians will survey Guelph residences in order to determine the severity of the infestation before beginning the extermination process.
How can I prevent a bed bug infestation?
Regular house cleaning; cleaning up clutter; inspection of all furniture/ clothing before bringing it into your home; inspection of luggage after a vacation and mattress covers will all help to prevent a bed bug infestation in Guelph residences.
How do I keep from bringing bed bugs home when I travel?
Inspect your hotel room and furniture for insects, droppings and blood spots. If you find any of these things request another room. Also inspect your luggage when you arrive home, before you enter your house, and immediately after returning, wash all clothes in hot water to kill any possible bugs.
Are bed bugs a health concern?
Bed bugs are not known to spread disease to humans; however, they can cause itchy, red welts on human skin which can be irritated when scratched.