NCPMA’s tips: Traveling without bed bugs – Montgomery Herald

State pest management association offers tips for preventing spread of bed bugs

Raleigh, N.C. Summer travel seasons kicks off this weekend and the North Carolina Pest Management Association (NCPMA) is urging North Carolinians to be vigilant in protecting themselves from bed bug infestations.

Bed bugs are easy to transport from one place to another. Whether youre staying in a hotel, rental property, dorm or summer camp, its important to inspect the property for signs of a bed bug infestation, said Clint Miller, NCPMA board member. Just a few simple steps can prevent an infestation in your own home.

Bed bugs are small insects that are often found in mattresses and upholstered furniture and behind baseboards and wallpaper. They can easily spread from room to room within a single building.

To prevent bed bugs, use the following tips from NCPMA:

Inspect

Before sleeping in a bed at a hotel, rental property, camp or dorm, check the mattress, bed sheets, and headboard for tell-tale blood spots or signs of bed bugs.

If signs of bed bugs are spotted, alert the hotel or rental property staff. Each hotel or rental property should have a Bed Bug Management Plan in place to assist you as the problem is addressed.

Vacuum suitcases after returning from a vacation, summer camp or dorm and throw away the vacuum bag or clean the canister. Wash all clothing from the suitcases in hot water.

Prepare

Consider bringing a large plastic trash bag in which to store your suitcase during stays at hotels, rental properties, dorms or camps.

Carry a flashlight with you to inspect mattresses and furniture in your vacation property.

Read Bed Bugs: Your Guide to Prevention, Detection & Treatment, a NCPMA booklet available through our member companies.

Call

Seek professional pest management to address an infestation. Trying to treat a problem without a professional can make the problem worse and more costly.

To learn more about NCPMA or to locate a pest professional, please visit its Web site at: http://www.ncpestmanagement.org.

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NCPMA's tips: Traveling without bed bugs - Montgomery Herald