How to Safely Use Pyrotechnics In Bird Control

Pyrotechnics have been proven for years to be one of the most effective bird deterrents, especially in settings like airports, landfills and aquaculture. Around 75% of airports around the world still use this tool as bird deterrents, but why?

Pyrotechnics as bird deterrents

The biggest issue with bird control tools is that birds are much smarter in adapting or habituating to their environment than people give them credit for. They get used to most of the deterrents. If birds at airports can get used to a Boeing 747 landing near them without scaring them, why a propane cannon or a standing laser will be effective in the long term?

The key of using pyrotechnics is combining sounds and visual effects to create a stimulus that attract birds primary instincts. This can be done with a variety of pyrotechnics of varying range, colors, and blasts that can make birds fell that the place is not safe to stay. However, the correct training of bird controllers is also essential. A true specialist know there is not a ¨silver bullet¨ in bird control. A complete toolbox, and well-trained proffesional are needed for a succesfull Wildlife Control Program.

Pyrotechnics have been used for years as an effective tool for the deterrent of birds, and today the latest technology is a specialized wireless bird control pyrotechnics launchers that have been proven to combine different visual effects, this allow users to combine different effects to avoid bird habituation, and also safeguard the bird controllers, so they are away from the ignition of the pyrotechnics.

Safety in Pyrotechnics pest control devices

In Eclipse Wildlife Control we take safety as the primary goal, this is why we follow some important rules.

• All Eclipse products are made with built in security sensors that block the system when an operator is surrounding them
• All Eclipse products come with a patented sensor which prevents using live rounds or other rounds that are not pyrotechnics in our products, for safety purposes.
• All eclipse products can be safely fired at a safe distance without the need of handheld launchers.

Bellow are some of the Basic Pyrotechnic Safety Rules recommended:

1. Wear eye and ear protection.
2. Check the barrel after each round. Clean the barrel as needed.
3. Store in a locked, temperature and humidity-controlled safe or cabinet separate from live ammunition.
4. Do not fire into the wind.
5. Do not fire towards buildings or people, or over a dry field.
6. Do not discharge pyrotechnics from within a vehicle.
7. Duds and damaged pyrotechnics should be completely soaked in water before they are discarded.
8. Carry operating instructions with the pyrotechnic pistol.
9. Carry a fire extinguisher for use in case of a fire.
10. Clean the pistol/shotgun often, as per manufacturer recommendation.

Loading and Firing a 12 Gauge Shotgun:

**A break action single-shot shotgun is recommended for use with shell crackers.** **Use only a 12 gauge open choke shotgun.**

1. Break open the 12 gauge shotgun and check and clear the barrel of debris.
2. Place the shell cracker into the chamber and close the shotgun.
   3. Fire the shotgun from the shoulder, holding it at approximately 45 degrees.
   4. Pull the hammer back. Squeeze the trigger to fire the shell cracker towards birds in a safe and appropriate direction. Shell crackers travel up to 100 yards.
   5. Check the barrel after every shot, and make sure it is clear of debris.

WARNING!!
IF YOU DO NOT HEAR THE SHELL CRACKER EXPLODE, DO NOT LOOK DOWN EITHER END OF THE BARREL; THE SHELL MAY BE LODGED IN THE BARREL AND COULD EXPLODE, CAUSING SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

Check out our pyro launcher in action: