What are bed bugs?
Bed bugs are flat, light tan to brown and oval-shaped until after they feed; then they fill out and turn a reddish color. The adult is approximately the size of an apple seed. Adult bed bugs can live for more than one year without feeding and can sustain extreme temperatures, making them difficult to kill.

Characteristics:
Size: Up to 1/4-inch in length
Color: Reddish-brown
Oval shape

Where do bed bugs live?
Bed bugs tend to settle in close proximity to their food source – you! During the day these nocturnal insects disappear in mattresses, sheets, furniture, behind baseboards, pictures and even torn wallpaper. At night, they come out to feed, attracted by breath and body heat. Bed bugs are dwelling not only in homes, but also in hotels, motels, apartments, dormitories, condominiums and cruise ships.

Why are bed bugs a problem?
Bed bugs are a nuisance. When they feed, they can leave itchy, bloody welts (similar to hives) on skin. However, because bites are usually painless, many victims do not even realize that they have a problem until the infestation is large. Also, bed bugs are great hitchhikers. Once indoors, they can spread from room to room, hitchhiking on clothing, personal belongings and even vacuum cleaners. They are difficult to control and require the help of a professional.

How do I know if my home or hotel room is infested?
Bed bugs leave behind brown or red spots on sheets. A large infestation of bed bugs can create a musty, sweet odor, like soda pop syrup. Bed bug bites can leave itchy, bloody welts on the skin. Check for these signs of infestations when traveling, or if you suspect you may have brought the insect into your home.

What do I do if I suspect a bed bug problem?
Because bed bugs are so difficult to kill, treating for them requires the use of a licensed, professional pest management professional with specific experience treating for these pests. Bed bugs are difficult to treat, but despite the challenges, ASG Pest Control has developed a preventive treatment for bed bugs.