Mosquitoes, Ants and Bed Bugs the Top Pests for Back to School

School is back in session and it is a hectic time for everyone trying to ensure a successful start to the academic year.

, a pest and termite control company that serves customers in several states and operates a Cartersville office, wants to make sure parents and teachers are aware of the potential for pest infestations both in and outside the classroom. Mosquitoes, ants and bed bugs are the top pests to be on the lookout for this back-to-school season.

"Our area experienced a huge explosion in the pest population this summer and their numbers are not dwindling as we move into fall," Arrow Pest Expert Shay Runion said in a statement. "Parents and teachers should take precautions to protect schools and homes from infestations.

Experience more pests or an infestation this summer? Tell us about it in the comments!

"The large numbers of students congregating in small spaces makes it easier than ever for pests to travel from person to person or backpack to backpack and then right into the home.” 

Arrow offers the following information and tips for teachers and parents:

Mosquitoes

Mosquito populations continue to boom and a record number of West Nile Virus cases have been reported across our area.  Parents and teachers should be aware of and remove sources of standing water around the home and school which serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes.  Additionally, parents, teachers and children should use an insect repellent containing DEET on exposed skin when playing outdoors and attending sporting events.

Ants

Ant infestations are very common in schools. Because they are small, they can easily find their way into small cracks and crevices around the school. Unwrapped food and crumbs left in a lunch box are the perfect snack for these pests. To prevent ant infestations, dispose of old food and clean crumbs from lunchboxes and lockers.

Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are small—about the size of an apple seed—and can typically be found in mattresses, suitcases, boxes and shoes. Nocturnal in nature, they feed on human blood. Often, people don’t realize they have been attacked until an itchy, red welt appears on the skin. To prevent a bed bug infestation, clean out backpacks each night and check around the seams to avoid bringing them into the home or dorm. Whenever possible, hang backpacks and purses to keep them off the floor.

For more information, visit www.arrowexterminators.com.

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