What happens on Spring Break stays on Spring Break—unless some bed bugs find their way into a traveler’s suitcase. As Spring Breakers get excited for their trips, A1 Exterminators reminds travelers to take precautions against bringing bed bugs back home with them.
“Bed bugs can lurk in the highest quality hotels and on the transportation travelers take before the vacation really starts, such as on a bus, train or airplane.” said Gary Weisberg, Owner for A1 Exterminators. “It’s crucial for travelers to be aware of how to properly inspect for and prevent transporting bed bugs back home. A few simple steps can help people can enjoy their vacations without suffering the aftermath of coming into contact with these relentless pests.”
A1 Exterminators recommends travelers use these bed bug prevention tips from the National Pest Management Association:
- At hotels,
thoroughly inspect the entire room before unpacking, including behind the
headboard and in furniture. Pull back the bed sheets and check the mattress
seams for pepper-like stains that may be evidence of bed bug activity. - Set your
luggage away from walls and never place it on the bed. Use a large plastic
trash bag or a protective cover to store suitcases during your hotel stay. - Immediately
notify management of any signs of bed bugs and ask for a new room. Ensure the
new room is not adjacent to and/or directly above/below the original room. Bed
bugs can easily hitchhike via housekeeping carts, luggage and even through wall
sockets. - If staying
at a residence, inform the homeowner immediately of a suspected bed bug
problem. - Upon
returning home, inspect and vacuum your suitcases thoroughly before bringing
them into the house. Consider using a garment hand steamer to steam your
luggage, which will kill any bed bugs. - Dry all
fabric items (even those that have not been worn) in a hot dryer for at least
30 minutes to ensure that any bed bugs that may have made it that far are not
placed into your drawers/closet. - If you suspect an infestation, contact a licensed pest control
professional immediately.
For more information on bed bugs, please visit www.a1exterminators.com.