Don't Let'em In And They Can't Bite

Bed Bug Epidemic Have you heard?  According to entomologists (insect expert), there is an epidemic of bed bugs now occurring in America . Recently several stores in NYC have had to close due to bed bug problems, as well as a complete mall in New Jersey . Apparently, since much of our clothing, sheets, towels, etc. now comes from companies outside of America, even the most expensive stores sell foreign clothing from China, Indonesia, etc. The bed bugs are coming in on the clothing as these countries do not consider them a problem. He recommends that if you buy any new clothing, even underwear and socks, sheets, towels, etc. that you bring them into the house and put them in your clothes dryer for at least 20 minutes. The heat will kill them and their eggs. DO NOT PURCHASE CLOTHES AND HANG THEM IN THE CLOSET FIRST. It does not matter what the price range is of the clothing, or if the outfit comes from the most expensive store known in the U.S. They still get shipments from these countries and the bugs can come in a box of scarves or anything else for that matter. That is the reason why so many stores, many of them clothing stores have had to shut it down in NYC and other places. All you need is to bring one item into the house that has bugs or eggs and you will go crazy trying to get rid of them. Entomologists are now traveling all over the country as advisors to many of these stores, as prevention and after they have the problem. Prevention is the key and you want to make sure everyone in your home is aware so that you can reduce your risk of contact. Removing the little buggers is expensive and should be done by a professional so that you hopefully only have to go through the process once without a re-infestation.    Google: Bed Bugs and your zip code for a list of pest services in your area.   Homeowners insurance is not designed to cover  these insects in any way. Bed bugs don't damage property they simply make life miserable for occupants of your home. Further Information to educate and protect yourself http://pmo.umext.maine.edu/factsht/bedbugs.htm http://www.maine.gov/dhhs/boh/ddc/epi/bedbugs/ If you find yourself needing to call a pest service for assistance we advise you to call immediately after discovering the problem.  We are hearing that these pest services are booking 2 weeks out from the initial calls. Best of luck to us all, seems we are in it together!  And please no bed bug jokes from our childhood...they're aren't cute anymore.