You are surrounded by various insect species. Even when you are in the privacy of your home, there are most likely some type(s) of insects in the nearby vicinity. It is unnerving when you think of sharing your home with uninvited pests. Some people want to know, others prefer being in the dark. Whatever the case may be,
bed bugs are a growing concern in some US states. Local and international travelers are at grave risk of encountering one of the most notorious parasites during their travels. What is this parasite? And, how can you avoid it? Find out by reading the content in the article below.
S.L.E.E.P – Avoiding Bed Bugs While Traveling
Avoiding
bed bugs may not be as simple as most travelers tend to believe. Whether you are traveling for business or personal feelings, you may very well encounter bed bugs somewhere along the line.
Survey “Scan”
The letter “S” represents the term “survey,” which could also stand for “scan.” Immediately upon entering your
motel room each night, use your eyes to perform a quick survey.
Remember, just because the room is neat and tidy does not mean it is
bed bug-free. In fact, travelers staying in 5-star resorts are reporting
bed bug encounters these days. Carefully and thoroughly scan the floor, bed linen, drapery, upholstery furniture, carpet, and other areas.
A large colony of
bed bugs generates a unique odor that is described as “musty and sweet.”
Lift And Look
The letter “L” represents the phrase “lift and look.” Once your survey is complete, it is time to dig a little deeper into your surroundings. Lift and look are pretty self-explanatory. Lift all movable objects, such as the pillow, bed linen, wastebasket, hanging art frames, books, notebook pads, pieces of furniture, mattress, and box springs.
If you are unfamiliar with bed bugs, you may not be able to concept the danger travelers face when visiting
bed bug-infested
motels, hotels, bed & breakfasts, and country inns. Yes, all of these travel accommodations may be infested with bed bugs.
Bed bugs are parasites that feed on blood, preferably human blood. These insects are known to remain hidden during the day and active at night because of their nocturnal instincts. Their small size (7 millimeters in length) and nocturnal instinct allows them to remain discrete for longer.
Elevate At Eye Level
The letter “E” stands for “elevate.” Elevate all lightweight objects, so they are level with your eyes. This is a crucial part of the process because it could mean disturbing the colony if bed bugs are present. Elevate each object up to eye level to examine more carefully.
Examine “Assess”
The second “E” stands for “examine” or assess. Once the object is at eye level, you should slowly assess it with your eyes. This step is basically a look-over. You probably have plans, so do not spend too much time elevating and examining.
Each step of the process is completed immediately upon entry into the motel room. Elevate and examine, on the other hand, will play a major role in your entry and exit. Before you make your final exit from the motel room, you will need to elevate and examine each piece of your luggage and other accessories.
Place And Position
The letter “P” represents the word “place” or position, which is the last step of the process. Once each object is assessed, you simply replace it in its original position. Most travelers take the bed bug threat very seriously because they refuse to become a victim.
Depending on how far you want to take your bed bug assessment, you may want to consider running your dryer-safe items through a 15-minute heat cycle. Nearly all overnight accommodations have guest laundry rooms.
Bed Bugs Are Not Joke!
Like yourself, bed bugs are just visiting motel rooms. The parasites have no intention of staying longer than necessary. In fact, they are sitting idle until suitable hosts come alone. Being oblivious to bed bug dangers is a great way to become the next bed bug host or victims as some experts like to call it.
Knowing, accepting, and taking the appropriate action will help keep you safe during your travels. Bed bugs are transported from location to location with the help of unsuspecting travelers. So, do not be an unsuspecting traveler.
