Using Nontoxic Methods to Take Action Against the Epidemic

Using Nontoxic Methods to Take Action Against the Epidemic

Once Bed Bugs have infiltrated a home, they are difficult to get control of and require a team of people to eradicate the situation. “The closely monitored, even distribution of heat is the only 100% effective way to kill all life stages of insects in the area being treated,” states Owen Carter, RHA Director of Housing Operations. RHA has invested thermal remediation equipment and a team of staff that specializes in bed bug removal. The most non-toxic way to kill the bed bugs is with the heat treatment requiring the unit to be heated at 110 degrees for at least 3 hours, that cost comes to about $300 to $500 per unit. All surrounding units need to be treated too, since it is easy for the pests to travel.

Diatomaceous Earth is the fossilized remains of sea creatures and is a non-toxic material. DE is usually found in the field of agriculture as an insecticide and pesticide. The particles of DE have microscopic razor-sharp edges, easily crumbled into a fine white to off-white powder and have a particle size ranging from less than 3 micrometers. When a bed bug makes contact with the particles, they cut its exoskeleton and the pests die of dehydration. You can put DE in the doorways of units to stop the bugs from spreading. DE is non-toxic for humans and animals.

As we are all aware, overcoming obstacles and adversity can be most difficult. While an obstacle is defined “as something that obstructs or hinders progress and come in many forms, this silent invader is an adversary that can be overcome both in our public spaces and in our homes.” Owen Carter, RHA Director of Housing Operations, reflects “We believe that this is the best strategy that will most appropriately deal with the situation our community is facing today.” A very wise person once said when facing this level of adversity that, “I am not what I have done; I am what I have overcome.” The Rockford Leadership Team is of like belief, that truly together we can, together we will.

Learn more about The Silent Invasion of Epidemic Proportions posed by Bed Bugs, and the actions taken by the Rockford Housing Authority to combat them, on our Blog. For the safety and comfort of all residents living in Rockford Housing Authority Units who suspect they may have bed bugs, please view the complete Rockford Housing Authority Bed Bug Policy and Bed Bug Heat Treatment Guide.