NEW REPORT RANKS TOP U.S. CITIES FOR BEDBUG INFESTATIONS
Terminix List Highlights 15 Most Popular Locations for Bloodsucking Pests
MEMPHIS, Tenn. (Aug. 23, 2010) – Bedbugs are shutting down office buildings and clothing stores and invading homes, and while no one is safe from these pests, a new report compiled from Terminix data shows 15 cities stand above the rest as the most bedbug-infested cities in the United States.
The list is topped by New York and includes other major cities such as Philadelphia, Los Angeles and Chicago. Surprisingly, Ohio receives the dubious distinction as the most bedbug-infested state, with three cities in the top 10 and four in the top 15.
The 2010 most bedbug-infested cities include:
1. New York
2. Philadelphia
3. Detroit
4. Cincinnati
5. Chicago
6. Denver
7. Columbus, Ohio
8. Dayton, Ohio
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9. Washington, D.C.
10. Los Angeles
11. Boston
12. Indianapolis
13. Louisville, Ky.
14. Cleveland
15. Minneapolis, Minn.
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Bedbugs were almost eradicated from the United States following World War II, but increasing international travel and other factors have allowed these pests to regain a foothold in the United States.
"It’s no surprise that highly trafficked cities such as New York City, Chicago and Los Angeles are on the list," said Paul Curtis, entomologist for Terminix. "It’s the bedbug problems in cities like Dayton and Louisville that prove bedbugs are back and can pop up anywhere. The bedbug problems in these cities outpace markets of far greater size despite their having a fraction of the population and typically fewer travelers and hotels."
The top 15 list was developed by Terminix and was created by compiling and analyzing market-specific call volume about bedbugs to the 350 Terminix service centers throughout the country.
Because of the bedbugs’ tendency to hitch rides from one location to the next, high-traffic areas such as hotels, motels, airplanes and cruise ships are especially susceptible to infestations. Travelers should use the following tips to protect themselves from bedbugs:
- Check headboards, mattresses and box springs for bedbugs and the dark blood spots they leave behind.
- Hang all clothing. Leave nothing lying on the bed or furniture.
- Avoid unpacking clothing and storing your clothing in the hotel’s furniture drawers.
- Store baggage on a luggage rack as far from the bed as possible.
- Vacuum suitcases when returning, and immediately wash clothing in hot water.
Consumers do not have to travel in order to bring a bedbug infestation into the home. According to Terminix data, reports of bedbug infestations in office buildings and retail shops are on the rise, and homeowners should use the following tips to protect themselves:
- Inspect furniture, antiques, used appliances or consignment items for signs of bedbugs before bringing them into the home.
- Never pick up used mattresses or furniture left curbside.
- Inspect clothing for bedbugs and wash (in hot water) new items in hot water after bringing them into the house.
- Use zippered encasements on infested mattresses and box springs.
- If you suspect you have bedbugs, have your home inspected by a trained professional. Bedbugs cannot be controlled by over-the-counter treatments.
Terminix, a division of The ServiceMaster Company, is an industry leader in termite and pest control services. Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., Terminix employs 9,000 associates across 350 service centers and serves more than 2.8 million customers in 45 states. Terminix provides pest control service for termites, rodents and other pests. To learn more about Terminix, visit their Web site at www.terminix.com or call 1-800-TERMINIX.
Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., ServiceMaster currently serves residential and commercial customers through a network of more than 5,500 company-owned locations and franchised licenses. The company’s brands include TruGreen, TruGreen LandCare, Terminix, American Home Shield, ServiceMaster Clean, Merry Maids, Furniture Medic and AmeriSpec. The core services of the company include lawn care and landscape maintenance, termite and pest control, home warranties, cleaning and disaster restoration, house cleaning, furniture repair and home inspection.
Chad Gilbert
901-260-4240
cgilbert@archermalmo.com
TERMINIX ESCORTS CELEBRATED INSECT TO NEW HOME
MEMPHIS, Tenn. (May 29, 2008) – It's pretty prestigious to be a part of New Orleans' soon-to-be-opened Audubon Insectarium, especially if you're Harry, a Chinese praying mantis from Memphis, Tenn.
Harry, who will be the final insect delivered to Audubon Insectarium, will begin a 600 mile journey with a special bon voyage party in Memphis June 6 and 7, leaving in time for Terminix to escort him south to his new home at the soon-to-open Audbuon Insectarium.
"The Insectarium will be a one-of-a-kind facility that changes the way a lot of people view insects," said Tom Brackett, Terminix president and chief operating officer. "We've been involved with the Insectarium since the very beginning, and as the presenting sponsor of the grand opening it's an honor to take Harry on a multi-state tour before we deliver him to his new home."
Harry's trip, titled "Harry's Big Adventure," will traverse four states in five days and will include one-day stops in Birmingham, Ala., Montgomery, Ala., Mobile, Ala., and Gulfport, Miss.
Delivering Harry to Audubon Insectarium and joining him for his tour will be Bill Sims, a Terminix employee and Hurricane Katrina evacuee.
Sims, a long-time resident of New Orleans, lived two blocks from the 17th Street Canal levee, which broke, allowing water to flood his neighborhood. Evacuating with only the possessions they could carry, Sims relocated to Birmingham, Ala., where he lived for one year before returning to the Crescent City and re-establishing his family.
"Bill embodies the resiliency of the people of New Orleans and the rebirth that is taking place in the city, and he's the perfect person to have the honor of presenting the final insect," said Brackett.
Audubon Insectarium is a 23,000 square foot facility located in New Orleans' historic U.S Custom House. The venue is the largest free-standing museum of its kind in the United States and is the first major attraction to open in New Orleans since Hurricane Katrina.
The state-of-the-art facility will use a combination of live insects and engaging exhibits to allow visitors to get an up-close look at some of the ecosystem's smallest, most important members. Museum highlights include a Japanese-inspired butterfly garden, a witty, multi-sensory movie showing in the Terminix Immersion 4-D theater and much, much more.
Terminix Brings Bugs to Children's Museum of Memphis
"The Insectarium is going to be unlike anything most have ever seen. We're all set for the opening, and all we need now is for Harry to hurry up and get down here. Let's just all hope that Harry and Bill can agree on a radio station," said Ron Forman, President and CEO of Audubon Nature Institute.
Harry's adventure can be tracked at www.harrysbigadventure.com. His blog includes a map that allows visitors to track his progress headed south and also includes Harry's musical playlist, photo galleries and continuous updates on the things he sees and the people he meets along the way.
About Terminix
Terminix, a division of the ServiceMaster Company, is the nation's largest pest control provider. Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., Terminix services more than 3 million customers in 46 states and 14 countries. Terminix provides pest control services and protection against termites, rodents and other pests threatening human health and/or safety. To learn more about Terminix visit their Web site at www.terminix.com.
About Audubon Nature Institute
Audubon Nature Institute, a New Orleans-based not-for-profit entity, operates a family of nature-themed parks and attractions. Other Audubon Nature Institute facilities include Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, Audubon Zoo, Woldenberg Riverfront Park, Entergy IMAX Theatre, Audubon Center for Research of Endangered Species, and Freeport-McMoRan Audubon Special Survival Center and Wilderness Park. The Audubon Louisiana Nature Center remains closed due to damage sustained during Hurricane Katrina. For more information about Audubon Nature Institute, visit www.auduboninstitute.org.
Clint Briscoe
901-260-4227
cbriscoe@archermalmo.com
TERMINIX TO SPONSOR OPENING OF AUDUBON INSECTARIUM
Memphis, Tenn., (April 16, 2008) – Audubon Nature Institute announced today they will open America’s largest freestanding museum devoted to insects on June 13, 2008, in New Orleans.
The museum, named Audubon Insectarium, will be the first major attraction to open in New Orleans since Hurricane Katrina struck the area in 2005. Terminix, the nation's largest pest control provider, is the leading sponsor of the Insectarium and will donate $2 million to the museum.
The Terminix commitment is a multi-year sponsorship that includes the presenting sponsorship of the Insectarium's Grand Opening and the permanent naming rights to the facility's 4-D theater.
"At Terminix, we love bugs. We've devoted our lives and our business to understanding them, and working with Audubon Nature Institute is an ideal opportunity for us to partner with one of the premier learning facilities to educate others about the important role insects play in our ecosystem," said Steve Good, Terminix senior vice president of new business development.
The Insectarium is a 23,000 square foot museum located in New Orleans' historic Custom House. Set on Canal Street, the Insectarium is located in the heart of the Crescent City's entertainment district and will attract visitors from around the world.
The state-of-the-art facility will use a combination of live insects and engaging exhibits to allow visitors to get an up-close look at some of the ecosystem's smallest, most important members. Museum highlights include a Japanese-inspired butterfly garden, a witty, multi-sensory movie showing in the Terminix 4-D theater and much, much more.
"Audubon Insectarium is devoted to insects and showcases their fundamental role in the environment," said Ron Forman, President and CEO of Audubon Nature Institute. "We are excited to work with Terminix to create a museum that is both educational and fun for the entire family."
About Terminix
Terminix, a division of the ServiceMaster Company, is the nation's largest pest control provider. Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., Terminix services more than 3 million customers in 46 states and 14 countries. Terminix provides pest control services and protection against termites, rodents and other pests threatening human health and/or safety. To learn more about Terminix visit their Web site at www.terminix.com.
About Audubon Nature Institute
Audubon Nature Institute, a New Orleans based not-for-profit entity, operates a family of nature-themed parks and attractions. Other Audubon Nature Institute facilities include Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, Audubon Zoo, Woldenberg Riverfront Park, Entergy IMAX Theatre, Audubon Center for Research of Endangered Species, and Freeport-McMoRan Audubon Special Survival Center and Wilderness Park. The Audubon Louisiana Nature Center remains closed due to damage sustained during Hurricane Katrina. For more information about Audubon Nature Institute, visit www.auduboninstitute.org.
Clint Briscoe
901-260-4227
cbriscoe@archermalmo.com
Terminix Unveils New, Affordable Approach to Termite Protection
Revolutionary Offering Can Reduce Cost of Protection by Up to 75 Percent
MEMPHIS, Tenn. (February 18, 2008) – Terminix, the nation's largest pest control company, is introducing a ground-breaking approach to termite protection, giving consumers a new, low-cost option when it comes to protecting their home from America’s most destructive pest.
The Termite Inspection and Protection Plan is the first of its kind in the industry and is offered exclusively by Terminix. The plan offers consumers protection against termites and the damage they cause without the initial use of traditional treatment methods.
"The overwhelming majority of American homes have no termite coverage, meaning millions of homes are unnecessarily being put at risk," said Steve Good, Terminix senior vice president of business development. "Termites can cause financial ruin for homeowners if allowed to go unchecked. Because traditional termite treatments can be expensive, many homeowners believe they can’t afford termite protection. With this new low-cost plan, you can’t afford not to have protection."
Traditional termite control for subterranean termites includes using a bait or liquid to eliminate termites and their colonies. While these control options are essential for homeowners who have a termite infestation, they are unnecessary in homes with no termite activity or signs of damage. The Termite Inspection and Protection Plan is a more environmentally focused approach to termite control, keeping chemicals from being used in the environment until needed.
For homes that qualify, the plan includes a comprehensive annual inspection to monitor for termite activity. If termite activity or damage is ever found, the plan provides owners with a guarantee that offers unlimited damage repairs and treatments. This innovative approach gives homeowners the same level of protection as traditional options without the unnecessary costs.
"In the past, protecting your home from termites cost homeowners thousands of dollars. Now, for homes that qualify it can cost just hundreds of dollars," said Stefan Figley, Terminix director of termite marketing. "On average, customers can now protect their homes from termites for less than $1 dollar a day, opening the door for more American homeowners to take a bold, proactive approach to protecting their most important investment."
Terminix Unveils New Termite Plan
The ultimate goal for Terminix is to use the Termite Inspection and Protection Plan to broaden the availability of coverage by offering the plan through alternate distribution channels such as financial institutions, real estate companies and consumer retail.
Termites are wood-destroying insects that live in every state except Alaska and annually cause more than $5 billion in damage in the United States. Homeowner’s insurance usually does not cover termite damage, leaving Americans to pay an average of nearly $3,000 in out-of-pocket costs for damage repairs.
In their natural environment, termites recycle dead wood back into the soil. When they gain access to a home, though, they can cause extensive damage. Structural supports and other pieces of wood are not the only items on their menu. Once in a home, they will even eat furniture, wallpaper and books.
The Terminix Termite Inspection and Protection Plan is currently available in 43 states and the District of Columbia.
Terminix is an industry leader in termite and pest control services. Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., Terminix employs 12,000 associates across 450 service centers and serves more than 3 million customers in 45 states. Terminix provides pest control service for termites, rodents and other pests. To learn more about Terminix, visit their Web site at www.terminix.com or call 1-800-TERMINIX.
Clint Briscoe
901-260-4227
cbriscoe@archermalmo.com
TERMINIX EARNS QUALITYPRO DESIGNATION
Memphis, Tenn., (January 15, 2008) – Terminix, the nation's largest pest control provider, recently earned a QualityPro designation from the National Pest Management Association.
QualityPro, considered the mark of excellence for pest control operators, is likened to the "Good Housekeeping" seal of approval for the industry and is designed to enhance public perception and consumer confidence in pest management professionals across the United States.
"Our company has a heritage and tradition built around quality. It's a cornerstone of our organization, and it's what has made Terminix the most trusted name in the industry," said Fred Strickland, B.C.E., Terminix vice president of service and technical services. "For years, we've used our own internal metrics and Quality Assurance programs to ensure we deliver exceptional service. Receiving the QualityPro designation further validates our history of excellence and the commitment we've always had to our customers and our associates."
The NPMA has 5,000 member organizations and less than 2 percent have earned the QualityPro status.
QualityPro companies have met qualifications built upon the principles of business operations, consumer relations, environmental stewardship and technician training. These qualifications include employing highly trained, credentialed employees; offering a clear, easy-to-understand warranty and termite service agreement; maintaining a drug-free workplace; advertising truthfully and ethically; and maintaining an up-to-date insurance policy.
"Terminix is the largest termite and pest control company in the world, and now one of less than two percent of the pest management industry who has taken the steps to participate in the QualityPro program," said Andrew Architect, executive director of QualityPro. "In achieving this milestone in excellence, they are demonstrating their commitment to provide consumers with quality, professional pest management services."
Terminix is the largest owner/operator to receive the QualityPro designation in the United States.
About Terminix
Terminix, a division of the ServiceMaster Company, is the nation's largest pest control provider. Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., Terminix services more than 2 million customers in 46 states and 14 countries. Terminix provides pest control services and protection against termites, rodents and other pests threatening human health and/or safety. To learn more about Terminix visit their Web site at www.terminix.com.
About QualityPro
QualityPro is the mark of excellence in pest management. This program is increasing the professionalism of the industry through self-regulation; stimulating consumer demand through increased confidence and a higher public perception of industry professionalism; and providing marketing opportunities to participating companies by recognizing commitment to excellence and higher performance standards. For more information, visit www.npmaqualitypro.org.
Clint Briscoe
901-260-4227
cbriscoe@archermalmo.com