Prevent Bringing Bed Bugs Home
Bringing bed bugs home can be avoided! When customers ask how we prevent bringing bed bugs home, it comes down to a few simple tips. Keep in mind we are in VERY high risk situations, every single day (literally, that’s all we do).
We also come across high risk situations just like a normal person does, out in the world.. and to be honest we are at higher risk there then every day at work in our customers’ homes!
Following some easy tips can go a long way to preventing a problem in the first place.
Basic Tips to Prevent Bringing Bed Bugs Home
If you are going somewhere you know may have bed bugs, or a place that you realize you may be at higher risk – These tips can help protect you from bringing a bed bug home. Keep in mind, all it takes is one single pregnant female and BAM, you have a bed bug problem at your home literally overnight.
Do not sit down, or sit your personal belongings down (coats, purses, briefcases, etc)
Avoid taking anything unnecessary
Strip if you can, before you get into your car or, definitely when you get home before going inside. Put clothing into a cloth bag, if possible ( pillow case ), then throw it in the dryer.
Worst case, when you get home – Strip! Take off coat, pants, tops, socks and put everything directly into the dryer. Leave your shoes and purse outside, and wipe those down before you bring anything into the house (anything that cannot go into the dryer).
Dry anything that could have been exposed, on high heat for 30 mins.
Family or Friend has a Bed Bug Problem
If you are knowingly visiting a family member or friend that has a bed bug problem, follow these simple tips. Limit what you take, and if possible bring a clean change of clothes to change into before you get into your car to leave. Bed bugs don’t make it a habit to live in cars, but it is still a good idea to try and prevent it all together.
If a place is seriously infested, it is critical to avoid it all together.
Another common scenario we see is shared custody and baby sitting arrangements. If a child goes to and from different houses in a short span of time, along with a car seat, pack and play, diaper bag, etc. This can be very conducive to spreading bed bugs. If one household is dealing with a bed bug issue, it is critical to follow protocol!
An ounce of prevention is definitely worth a pound of cure, and some vigilance and basic preventative measure can go a very long way!
Home Healthcare, Emergency Responders and Other High Risk Careers
Some careers are higher risk than others, period. If you are in a high risk career you may need to follow steps every single day (just like we do!).
Have a bag you can toss directly into the dryer, have a keen eye for signs of a bed bug problem and keep a very tight ship!
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