Although you may be tempted to try something yourself to kill off these pests, it can be very dangerous. For public health and your health, hiring a professional to remove them is best. A pest control expert will be able to discover all the area they dwell and all the places they may have laid eggs.

Even though bed bugs are human parasites, they do not attach themselves to the skin of humans. They travel in clothing and bedding. Their eggs are adhesive so you could be carrying around the makings of an infestation without having any idea. The longer they live in your clothes, your bedding, and your home, the more difficult it is to have them completely removed.

Tips for preventing bed bugs:

• Vacuum suitcases after returning from a vacation.

• Check your bedsheets for tell-tale blood spots.

• Consider bringing a large plastic trash bag to keep your suitcase in during hotel stays.

• Carry a small flashlight to assist you with quick visual inspections.

• Never bring second-hand furniture, especially mattresses and box springs, into a home without thoroughly examining for signs of a bed bug infestation. You might consider having a pest control professional inspect the furniture as it is difficult to detect an infestation if you are untrained.

• Regularly inspect areas where pets sleep for signs of them.

• They are elusive creatures, so it is imperative to seek professional pest control to address an infestation.