SECAUCUS AND BEYOND – Earlier this week a bed bug was found in a classroom at Clarendon Elementary school in Secaucus, and another one was found Friday morning in the same room, a school official confirmed Friday. Sal Cioffi, facilities director, said that it was an isolated incident that the district responded to immediately by having their pesticide control manager, Stern Environmental Group, come and assess the situation.
Cioffi said that the district has not used any pesticides but has been proactive in instituting an integrated pest management plan through daily monitoring, and cleaned the room from top to bottom every night and every morning.
“The custodian goes in to the classroom and cleans corners, crevices, desks…everything,” said Cioffi. “We are treating this very proactively.”
Cioffi said that the procedures are in the best interest of the children and said that the classroom where the bed bugs were found is a safe environment.
“The County Health Department is advising us,” said Susan Smahl, director of special services. “There is a process we have to follow. We are taking care of everything we have to.”
“A notice will be sent out to parents today by the principal so that they know what is going on…to alleviate some of the concerns,” said Smahl.
Bed bugs are a concern because they are spread easily, and contaminate beds and other furniture, biting people and feeding on their blood.
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