WHAT BACK TO SCHOOL MEANS FOR BED BUGS

Back to school is a busy time of year for kids and parents. Gone are the lazy days of summer (sigh!). Along with the changing leaves and cooler weather, families have the added stress of getting back into the school year routine and fall activities.

So what do bed bugs have to do with school? These bugs can be brought home in your child’s books.

Bed Bugs in Schools

These pests have increased in frequency in schools in recent years. As the bed bug population continues to climb, protecting your family and home is a big concern among parents. They are known to multiply quickly, travel easily and are extremely difficult to eliminate. Being proactive and informed is beneficial in preventing these pests from infiltrating your home.

Tips for teachers

• Reduce clutter in classroom

• Keep rugs and carpets to a minimum

• Remove curtains and wall frames

• Inspect library books when they are returned—place them in a plastic liner for inspection.

• Frequently inspect and vacuum classrooms

• Educate parents and encourage them to recognize the signs.

Tips for parents

• Inspect backpacks when your child gets home from school—this includes books, papers, pencil cases and any other items

• When contents are removed from backpack, inspect thoroughly

• Place child’s clothing in a dryer on the highest setting

• Be sure to inspect your child if they’ve been at a friend’s house, as these bugs can transfer from house to house.

Bed Bugs in Libraries

The occurrence of bed bugs in books at libraries, movie theatres and malls has increased dramatically in recent years. They are able to attach themselves to a person by their clothing or in their backpacks. Bed bugs in library books have been increasing in larger cities over the years. New York, Vancouver and Toronto have experienced bed bug issues within their libraries. This occurs due to females laying eggs in the spines of hardcover books or when they lurk under the paper covers.

If you suspect you have an infestation in your home or school, address the problem as quickly as possible and give us a call! We can help!