Bedbug infestations have been reported at Overlook Manor in Hillcrest, Woodlawn Village and Brookside apartments.

Although bedbugs were dormant for several decades, they are making a comeback nationally. The National Pest Management Association used to handle one or two calls per year; they now have one or two calls weekly concerning the pesky critters.

The problem lies in the bugs' resilience. Bedbugs feed on blood, but can live up to a year or more without food and can survive in extreme temperatures. And although their name suggests a bedside dwelling, bedbugs can also be found in baseboards, furniture, wall or floor crevices and wallpaper.

Tissues and fly swatters won't squash this pest. Bedbugs are notoriously hard to get rid of, and often require up to three treatments by an exterminator. Sometimes, more are needed, according to Tom Taylor, an inspection manager with Superior Pest Management LLC. Treatments vary in price, ranging from $385 to $900. Once a bug is spotted, treatment should begin as soon as possible, because bedbugs like to breed.

"At first I thought -- Oh my gosh, I felt like a dirty person telling people I had bedbugs," Kimberly Roberts said in a recent interview with The Frederick News-Post. "You could be the cleanest person on earth, but if your neighbor has them, chances are you'll get them too."

Fortunately, eviction for housing bedbugs is illegal, so residents who suspect they may be victims should not hesitate to contact their landlords.

Last week, the News-Post asked readers, are you worried about bedbugs?

Of the 123 people who voted, 25 percent are concerned about bedbugs, 73 percent are not and 2 percent aren't sure.

The results are not scientific and only reflect the views of those who chose to participate online.

This week, the News-Post asks,

After three fatal school shootings, President Bush announced he will hold a conference next week on school safety.

How safe are children in Frederick County schools?

n Very safe

n Pretty safe

n Not very safe

n Don't know

Post your comments » Round 2: Snow expected to fall today, Wednesday Fast on the heels of the largest 24-hour snowfall to hit the Frederick County since 1983, meteorologists are predicting another round of heavy snow and wind to hit today. The National Weather Service issued a winter storm warning Monday afternoon for the area, including Frederick County, and said 10 to 20 inches of snow is possible by Wednesday night. Weather-related closings, delays A list follows of weather-related closings and cancellations for this week. Fire and police blotter Police search for robber School closures cause makeup schedule revision Even though Frederick County Public Schools are closed today -- using the sixth snow day this school year -- the school system will not hold school on the Monday Presidents Day holiday as the first scheduled snow makeup day. Crowds pay respect to fallen marine Even U.S. Marines couldn't hold back tears Monday at the viewing of their colleague, Sgt. David Smith. The procession to the Frederick Christian Fellowship Church was led by Frederick County Sheriff's deputies. Dressed in full military regalia, Marines carried Smith's casket into the church followed by family members as more Marines stood at attention.