Bed Bugs

Identification

The rusty brown bed bug is a blood-sucking insect that becomes red after a blood meal. Their flat, broad oval-shaped bodies grow to be 1/4 inch.

Problem

They hide during the day and come out at night from the seams in mattresses and box springs, from behind electrical switch plates, picture frames, wallpaper, baseboards and from out of suitcases, boxes and shoes.

Bed bugs dine on warm-blooded animals - but primarily humans. They do not transmit disease, but their bites become red, itchy welts.

Prevention

Inspect and thoroughly vacuum suitcases after returning from a vacation or business trip. Consider bringing a large trash bag to keep your suitcase in during hotel stays. These unwelcome guests are elusive and often require professional attention.