There have been several news stories about bed bug infestations in movie theaters. Is this something that you need to worry about the next time you go to the movies? And if so, what can you do to prevent bringing a bed bug home from the movie theater?
Bedbugs Movie Theater Invasion: What’s Their Next Target?
Top 10 Bedbug Infestations Spots: Travel Channel
Bedbugs reported at Mayfair Mall’s AMC Movie Theater
What you may notice, is the news stories are far and few between. In many cases, reports indicate that the bed bugs are isolated to a few rows in a single theater, and the theater is not “completely infested” with bed bugs. Yes, bed bugs can invade a movie theater if the problem is ignored. But if you are going to a reputable movie theater that is regularly maintained, your risk of bringing home a bed bug infestation is small. And, by taking some very simple precautions, you can reduce your risk even further.
How to Avoid Bringing a Bed Bug Home From the Movie Theater
As in most public places, a bed bug may hitch a ride onto your coat or into your bag. By being aware of your surroundings and making it a habit to take these simple steps to prevent bed bugs from crawling onto you or your belongings, you can lower your risk of bringing a bed bug home.
Travel Light
Less is best when exposing yourself to a situation where a bed bug may hitch a ride onto you or your personal belongings. Try to leave your backpack, bag, or purse at home if possible.
Dress in Light Layers
If you are worried about bringing a bed bug home with you from the movie theater, then avoid wearing thick over-sized clothing with lots of pleats, tufts, and/or folds. Should a bed bug crawl into a thick, knitted sweater that you are wearing, then you would be less likely to notice it.
Dress in Light Colors
A small bed bug is easier to see on light colored clothing than on dark colors. Keep that in mind when choosing what to wear to the movie theater, and lean towards wearing lighter colors.
Consider Sharing The Coveted Empty Seat
Who doesn’t love having an empty seat next to them at the movie theater? It gives you a place to unload your jacket, your purse, and whatever else you don’t want sitting on your lap for 2 hours so you can enjoy a more comfortable movie experience. But be careful. If you happen to place your items in an empty seat at the movie theater, check everything carefully as soon as you leave to make sure they are bed bug free. Maybe it would be best to leave the seat next to you open…
Relax and Enjoy the Movie
Bed bugs are everywhere: in stores, offices, hotels, restaurants, and they are not specifically targeting movie theaters. Don’t let the scare of a bed bug cause you to miss the next big blockbuster hit. When you go to the movies, just keep aware, and use these simple tips. Most importantly, enjoy the movie.
One Last Check…
Before entering your home, do one last check to make sure you don’t see any bed bugs crawling on your clothing or your personal belongings. Use your hands to brush off your coat, and shake it out before going inside and hanging it in the coat closet.
Free Bed Bug Consultation
In the rare case that you think you brought home bed bugs from the movie theater, then Titanium Laboratories can help you. Contact us today to speak to a bed bug expert, and get a free bed bug consultation.
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