Fall usually finds a lot of people changing residences as school starts. Because of all this movement, autumn is prime time for bed bugs to spread. It’s pretty easy for these invaders to hitch a ride from one place to another in personal items…and you don’t even know they’ve come along for the ride!
Finding bed bugs in your new living quarters can be a shocking experience, one that’s sure to strain relations with people around you. This is especially true in university life. Becoming acquainted with new roommates is enough of challenge without complications. Having to tell them you have bed bugs can break any trust you’ve developed!
According to the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), bed bugs are a serious matter in college environments, both on- and off-campus. They thrive in the tight quarters students often occupy. When discovered, these pests must be dealt with immediately to keep them from spreading.
Don’t let their name fool you! While bed bugs do hide in beds, they also inhabit furniture in living rooms, dens, and other shared spaces commonly found in dorms. These areas are perfect places for a bed bug to fall off one person and climb onto another. Also…
Bed bugs can live in all sorts of temperatures. They don’t die in fall as other pests do. They won’t just disappear as cooler weather takes over. This means that when discovered, you can’t just wait for them to go away…because they won’t!
Putting a bed bug cover on your mattress is a good first step, but this will not prevent them from settling into your space. Bed bugs don’t require much to live. A tiny fold or crease is all the space they need. They feed solely on the blood of sleeping humans and animals. As long as they have a food supply, these insects will thrive.
If you do find bed bugs in your place, immediately take anything that’s washable to the laundry. Wash using hot water and dry using the highest heat available. Store laundered items in airtight plastic containers. Be sure to thoroughly examine books, stuffed animals, pillows, and other items, to make sure they’re clear.
Eliminating bed bugs is a tricky job that requires the right treatment. The quicker you can get on top of the problem, the easier it is to contain. DIY methods are completely ineffective, so it’s important to call a expert right away.
KC Pest Control uses a three-step process…inspection, implementation, and elimination…to resolve bed bug issues. If bed bugs are living in your space, don’t wait! Call us immediately! Bed bugs are not your friends, and are definitely not a part of college life you want to experience!
