What is a common control measure for preventing the spread of fleas in military settings?

Regularly cleaning animals and bedding is an effective control measure for preventing the spread of fleas in military settings because it helps eliminate both adult fleas and their eggs. Fleas thrive in dirty environments, as debris can provide a habitat for them to live and reproduce. Regular cleaning disrupts this lifecycle by removing fleas and their eggs from the bedding and the animals themselves, thus reducing the overall flea population.

Maintaining cleanliness in areas where animals are housed, including appropriate grooming of the animals, helps to prevent infestations that can lead to discomfort and disease transmission. This practice is essential in military operations where personnel may be in close quarters with animals, potentially introducing fleas into the living environment.

Other options, such as ignoring the presence of fleas or using bright-colored carpets, are ineffective in controlling flea populations. Keeping animals outside at all times may not be practical or humane and does not address the issue of fleas; they can easily find their way back into any living quarters. Therefore, regular cleaning is the best approach to effectively manage and prevent flea infestations.