The national bed bug problem plaguing facilities will be addressed by the Federal Bed Bug Workgroup in February at the bed bug summit. The summit is open to the public and will focus on areas of bed bug control and management.
The first bed bug summit was held by the EPA in 2009. The summit’s agenda includes a progress report from the time of the last summit, identifying knowledge issues about bed bugs, and proposals to move forward in bed bug control, education, and elimination.
Preventing bed bugs from overtaking a facility can be a daunting task. The EPA provides some helpful framework toward bed bug prevention:
- Remove clutter where bed bugs can hide
- Seal cracks and crevices
- Vacuum rugs and upholstered furniture thoroughly and frequently, as well as vacuuming under beds (take the vacuum bag outside immediately and dispose in a sealed trash bag)
- Wash and dry clothing and bed sheets at high temperatures (heat can kill bed bugs)
- Be alert and monitor for bed bugs so they can be treated before a major infestation occurs
- Before using any pesticide product, READ THE LABEL FIRST, then follow the directions
- Check the product label to make sure it is identified for use on bed bugs. If bed bugs are not listed on the label, the pesticide has not been tested for bed bugs and it may not be effective
The bed bug summit will be held in Washington D.C. on February 1-2, 2011.
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