Northeast News
June 29, 2014

KANSAS CITY, Missouri — In response to increased calls related to bedbugs, the Kansas City, Mo., Health Department is now offering a free “Integrated Pest Management” class for those suffering from bedbug, cockroach or mouse infestations.

The first two public classes will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 1, and Saturday, July 12, at the Health Department, 2400 Troost Ave. The class is geared toward individuals interested in learning how to manage and potentially decrease the pest infestation in their home.

In a press release, Michael Swoyer, supervisor of the department’s Rat Control program, said the department used to get a call with questions about bedbugs every few months. But now, the department is getting multiple calls each week.

“Since there is no funding currently available for a bedbug elimination program, we are working with several pest management companies to offer this educational opportunity,” Swoyer said.

Four local pest management companies – Schendel Pest Services, Serengeti Pest Control, Smithereen Pest Management and SOS Pest Control – have agreed to provide discounted services to homeowners who have successfully completed the class. Unfortunately, the discounts are not currently available to apartment residents. At this time, the Health Department does not provide pest elimination services for bedbugs, roaches or mice. Additional Integrated Pest Management classes will be announced as they are scheduled. To register for the class, call 816-513-6010.