[Noisebridge-discuss] Solving the bedbugs problem at Noisebridge

[Griffin Boyce]

Right now, I'm living in an area of the east coast that is having some sort
of bedbug epidemic. Let me just say that it *is* possible to fight and win,
but it requires a combination approach and patience.

Presuming that NB does have bedbugs, I'd just like to concur with what
others have stated:

1) The space should be inspected to see if there ~are~ bedbugs and to get a
handle on how big the problem is.  An exterminator is going to be your best
bet on this.

2) DIY fogging is not an effective solution for the space.  There are just
too many places for them to hide, and many of these places won't be affected
much by fogging.  Fogging in this way leads to a months-long cat-and-mouse
game with bedbugs that winds up being extremely aggravating for all
involved.

3) Couches will likely need to be tossed if they are infested (be sure to
wrap them in plastic first, to minimize bedbugs escaping).  If that has to
happen, maybe people can bring in non-upholstered chairs as needed?

4) Treating with very cold compressed air, high heat, and alternating both,
is probably the best solution for getting rid of them (barring an amazing
exterminator solution).

5) The key to treating with high heat is to do it FAST, or they will simply
leave the heated area and return once it's cooled.  You can rent equipment
that can pull this off.  Caveat: This would be 130F-140F for 2-3 hours.

Good luck!

Griffin


On Mon, May 9, 2011 at 2:25 AM, Christine DiBella <
christinedibella at gmail.com> wrote:

>
> Hi, I haven't actually read this whole discussion, I have some suggestions
> and I apologize if I'm repeating anything previously discussed.
>
> 1. Contact Vector Control for an inspection
> http://www.sfdph.org/dph/EH/Vector/default.asp
>
> 2. the most effective way to treat a bedbug problem is by heating the area
> to 115+ degrees for 20min, no chemicals if fact chemicals are often not
> effective
>
> 3. I agree with getting rid of the couches, future couches should have a
> frame that would not harbor bedbugs and cushions that could be washed and
> put in a dryer.
>
> 4. Prevention, put pest monitors throughout the space and check regularly
>
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