Don’t let the
bed bugs bite!

Information on what bed bugs are and how to get rid of them.


bed bug
Dear Friend,

Bed bugs are an incredible nuisance and difficult to get rid of. No home is immune to a bed bug infestation. In the last decade, bed bugs have begun making a comeback across the United States.

Bed bugs are imperceptible, vampire-like insects that feed on human blood. They do not, however, have a history of being disease carriers. Bed bugs bite exposed areas of skin, causing itchy welts, and may aggravate certain allergies. Bed bugs travel easily through small holes and crevices, clothes and other fabric. Therefore, infestations spread rapidly and immediate action is essential in counteracting the bug invasion.

This pamphlet is intended to serve as a resource to help residents understand what bed bugs are and how to keep infestations from spreading. If you have any questions or comments about this or any other subject, please don’t hesitate to contact my office at 718-236-1598..

Sincerely,
signature
Assemblyman William Colton
Member of Assembly

155 Kings Highway
Brooklyn, NY 11223-1026
Phone: 718-236-1598
coltonw@assembly.state.ny.us


What are bed bugs?

Bed bugs are about the size of an apple seed and have flat, rusty-red-colored oval bodies. When bed bugs feed, their bodies swell and become brighter red. They often hide in cracks in furniture, floors and walls and are usually active at night when people are sleeping. Bed bugs can live for several months without food or water.

Bed Bugs?
Actual Size of a Bed Bug

The approximate size of an adult bed bug is about 1/4” in length.
(shown here actual size)

What does a bed bug bite feel and look like?

Most bed bug bites are initially painless, but later turn into large, itchy skin welts.

Are bed bugs dangerous?

Although bed bugs are a nuisance, they are not known to spread disease.

How does a home become infested with bed bugs?

In most cases, people carry bed bugs into their homes unknowingly. Bed bugs can travel in luggage, furniture, bedding and clothing, and also through small cracks and crevices in walls and floors.

Bed Bug
How do I know if my home is infested with bed bugs?

Itchy welts will appear on your skin. You may also see the bed bugs themselves, small bloodstains from when they get crushed, or dark spots from their droppings.

How can I get rid of bed bugs?

Pest control professionals licensed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation can get rid of bed bugs by using pesticides. Talk with a professional about safe use of pesticides and make sure he/she:

Be sure you hire a licensed exterminator. Ask to see a copy of the license or check directly with the DEC by calling (718) 482-4994 or visiting www.dec.state.ny.us/website/dshm/pesticid/appman.htm.

What else can I do?

The key to getting rid of bed bugs is to clean, disinfect and eliminate their hiding places. Suggestions include:

Bed Bug

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