Toronto tops a list of begbug hot spots, according to Orkin Canada’s inaugural list of bedbug cities in Canada. Scarborough, in the region of Toronto, was also on the list.
Twenty five cities were ranked by the number of commercial and residential bedbug treatments the company performed between July 1, 2016 and June 30, 2017.
Bedbug encounters are more likely during busy travel seasons like summer vacation. Entomologists say having a clean room does not prevent bedbugs. Two bedbugs can lay up to ten eggs in one day and are extremely efficient hitch hikers. They can move easily across a room and climb onto luggage or anything left on a bed in just one night.
Top Ten Cities:
1. Toronto
2. Winnipeg
3. Vancouver
4. Ottawa
5. St. John’s
6. Edmonton
7. Halifax
8. Sudbury
9. Scarborough
10. Calgary
Other bedbug cities can be viewed here
Tips for Facilities and Vacationers:
- Inspect beds thoroughly, such as soft furnishings and framed pictures. Look for insects, blood stains, dead bugs and eggs.
- Do not put clothing or luggage directly on a bed. If bedbugs are present in the bed, they can climb into bags, suitcases or any laundry left on the bed.Keep all luggage elevated and away from soft furnishings.
- Use metal luggage racks at all times. Bedbugs cannot easily climb metal surfaces, so they make an ideal overnight spot for your suitcase. Keep the rack away from the walls and any wooden furniture.
- Hotels aren’t the only bedbug travel threats. Bedbugs thrive in dark, cool places with long-term access to humans. They can also be found on airplane and train seats, buses or in rental cars. It’s rare but it is possible to pick up bed bugs in places like these.
- Bedbugs can also hide in books, cloth toiletry kits and other non-metal personal items. Use small plastic bags to pack clothing, shoes and other personal items. This will help prevent any bedbugs that climb into your suitcase from getting into your house with your clothing.
- Leave luggage in the garage when returning from vacation and put all clothing in the dryer at the highest appropriate temperature for at least 15 minutes.
