10-1-10: State Association Encourages Awareness of Bed Bugs and Prevention and Treatment of the Pests
Association supports efforts to eradicate bedbugs
Raleigh, N.C. – As bed bug infestations continue to rise, the North Carolina Pest Management Association (NCPMA) today applauded North Carolina Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler’s request to increase efforts to approve new bed bug treatments.
“The North Carolina Pest Management Association thanks Commissioner Troxler for bringing awareness to the bed bug problem,” said Lee Smith, NCPMA board member. “Pest management professionals provide a variety of effective treatments to help treat bed bug infestations. While the number of bed bug infestations continues to grow, new treatments will help professionals manage the problem more effectively and more economically for consumers.”
Although eradicated from the U.S. decades ago, bed bugs have reemerged in recent years due to changes in pesticide treatments and ease of international travel.
According to the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) bedbugs hide in small cracks and crevices close to a human environment. They are often found behind baseboards, wallpaper, upholstery and in furniture crevices.
“Although they do not pose a health hazard, bed bugs can be a very itchy problem for homeowners and can be difficult to treat. To properly treat bed bug infestations, homeowners should hire a professional pest management company,” said Smith. “Members of the North Carolina Pest Management Association are trained in the latest techniques and treatment methods.”
Although treating bed bugs requires a professional pest management company, there are several steps to help prevent bringing bedbugs into a home. These steps are:
- Vacuum suitcases after returning from a vacation.
- Before sleeping in a hotel or rental property bed, check the mattress and bedsheets for tell-tale blood spots or signs of bed bugs.
- Consider bringing a large plastic trashbag to keep your suitcase in during hotel stays.
- Carry a small flashlight to assist you with quick visual inspections.
- Bed bugs are elusive creatures, so it is imperative to seek professional pest control to address an infestation.
About the NCPMA
Founded in 1952, the North Carolina Pest Management Association (NCPMA), is the trade association representing the professional pest management industry in North Carolina. NCPMA promotes the continued cooperation and success of all pest management businesses in North Carolina. Formerly, the North Carolina Pest Control Association, NCPMA is the only statewide association dedicated to representing and educating North Carolina’s pest management professionals. To learn more about NCPMA, please visit www.ncpestmanagement.org.
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