Bedbugs: Luton Council receives 'alarming number' of calls

A council said it had received an "alarming number" of calls to tackle bedbugs amid fears that outbreaks in Paris could spread to the UK.

Luton Borough Council issued guidance on what people should do to prepare their homes for "treatment"

But it warned there were not "limitless resources" to tackle the issue.

In its post, Luton Council issued advice to homeowners wanting a visit from a council pest control officer.

It said beds must have been stripped with bedcovers placed into sealed bin liners and ideally stored in a bath, wardrobes, drawers and bookcases should be emptied and contents also placed in sealed bin liners.

All furniture should be pulled away from walls with pictures and posters taken off walls to allow for inspection.

The council, which has not released numbers of calls received over bedbugs, said: "Successful treatment can be a lengthy process and the council does not have limitless resources to counter this pest."

"Lavender oil masks their scent pattern and they can't cope with it," he said.

He also advised washing at high temperatures, vacuuming often and freezing sheets which stops the bugs from breeding.