With the rise of bed bugs in the country, places that you wouldn’t expect to find bed bugs, are now being overtaken by bed bugs.This leads some to wonder can you find bed bugs at retail stores? In a study done by the National Pest Management Association showed that about 45% of pest control experts had encountered bed bugs in retail outlets like clothing stores, mattress stores, and furniture stores including other retail outlets. Bed bugs are known for their hitchhiking prowess, and they can move from place to place by attaching themselves to clothing, bags, and shoes of visitors and employees of these retail shops. Also, bed bugs can also hitchhike on new delivery into the shop, and even returned items.
The presence of bed bugs in any retail establishment can lead to damaging results, and it is because of this store owners, and employees must encourage preventive measures and treatment measures for bed bugs.
The nuisance called bed bugs
Bed bugs are bloodsuckers. They feed on humans and sometimes furry pets. Known as nocturnal creatures, bed bugs only come out at night to feed and rest during the day. A typical bed bug bite can have mild to severe effects depending on the individual. Generally, bed bug bites result in itching, bumps, welts and even allergic reaction. Apart from their bites, bed bugs leave an array of stains, eggs, skins, and unpleasant odor.
Although not invisible, bed bugs can be difficult to spot because of their tiny size and shape, and also due to the fact that they are stealthy in their approach. When they are not feeding, they are usually resting or breeding in their hiding place. Bed bugs usually hide in dark and cool places such as behind picture frames, crevices, cracks, furniture and so on.
Bed bugs are stubborn insects that are challenging to control and are usually resistant to several pesticides. This may lead retail management to question can you find bed bugs in retail stores? This allows them to remind themselves to be vigilant and protect customers.
How retail stores can combat bed bugs
Store owners and managers alike, need to know that bed bugs aren’t something to be joked with, and prompt action can prevent a small infestation from turning into a massive problem. Retail outlets can take the following preventive procedures;
- Carry out an extensive education on what bed bugs look like and the signs of their presence
- Look at for signs of their presence in furniture and clothes
- Eliminate any clutter found in and around the store
- Vacuum and clean waiting rooms and fitting areas of your store frequently
- Thoroughly inspect all incoming deliveries, return items for signs of bed bugs.
- Have a plan in place should you find any bed bug in your store. You can have a local pest control expert on speed dial should the need arise
