Friday, September 26, 2008

More Bed Bugs

A final word for now on bed bugs, a pest problem that has been increasing exponentially in the last few years here is Southern California. Today we will discuss the intricacies of bed bug control. 
Bed bugs are controlled by various methods, We rely heavily on residual pesticides to kill bed bugs in their harborage areas and, hopefully, areas they travel through. We need to identify and treat all these areas because an infested area missed means the bugs will continue to be a problem. Heat is also an immediate killer, though there is no residual mechanism to kill bed bugs that come later. Sometimes mattresses and/or furniture are steamed at about 120 degrees, which immediately kills adult and nymph bed bugs. This may be helpful with mattresses and sofas, but will provide no residual protection from bed bugs that decide to re-infest the mattress. We strongly recommend special mattress covers that seal bed bugs either in or out of a mattress, thereby eliminating the mattress as a source of infestation through the whole process. Although there are some chemicals labeled for mattresses, safety is a first concern, especially where children or the elderly are involved. Thorough vacuuming can also assist in the treatment of infested areas.
Regardless of what techniques are used, multiple trips, inspections, and applications are essential for control. Generally a minimum of three trips is necessary for control in two to three week intervals, with some follow-up after that to ensure no more bed bugs have survived to re-infest the living area. 
Bed bug control is unlike any other pest control. It is meticulous, requires several visits, sometimes specialized equipment, and even then the bugs may make a resurgence requiring more visits and treatments. Beware of companies who promise an easy "cure." Bed bugs are a complicated problem, and one that will not be easily solved. As mentioned in yesterday's quiz answers, avoid the problem by avoiding discarded furniture at garage sales and thrift stores. This is a major source of bed bug infestation. For an informational slide show, click here. To go to the San Diego County website on integrated pest management for bed bugs, click here. To contact Centurion Pest Control, visit our web site here.

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Check out www.heartspm.com. We have been able to solve very serious bed bug problems with only one visit. How do we do it? We do it with an intense inspection and strip down of furniture so that chemical (knock down and residual) is applied to any and all surfaces.

Gerry Weitz, Pres.
Hearts Pest Management

Pest extermination said...

Bed bugs are usually hiding in places where there isn't much light. For instance, make sure that you check inside dressers and closets, underneath mattresses, and behind door hinges.

Unknown said...

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