Presenter demonstrates pressurized exhaust device for rat burrows; stresses 65‑foot setback and safety precautions

A presenter demonstrated a portable pressurized exhaust machine used to treat rat burrow systems and emphasized regulatory and safety limits for its use.

The presenter said the unit—one of several styles that vary in size and capacity—can be more easily pulled around when smaller, while larger models can treat as many as four to six burrow systems at once. "This is one of the more portable units," he said, describing the smaller machine planned for the demonstration.

He told the audience that "they are not considered a pesticide by DPR. They are considered a device," adding that classification means the devices do not carry all the same restrictions as restricted‑use pesticide products, though other restrictions apply.

On setbacks, the presenter stated operators must maintain buffer zones from structures that may be occupied. "So for roof rats that distance is 65 feet," he said, and added that the device cannot be used within that distance of buildings that might house people, pets or livestock.

Describing how the unit is used, the presenter said the machine contains a smoke additive—an oil added before startup—that produces visible smoke as the unit generates exhaust. Operators should cover any other openings where smoke appears so the treatment reaches the intended burrow system and does not vent out elsewhere.

"You'll take this hose and you will go ahead and insert that down into the burrow system," he explained. The presenter said the exhaust is essentially engine exhaust laden with carbon monoxide and that it is the carbon monoxide "that will asphyxiate the animal." He recommended running the unit for about three minutes for roof rats, while noting times vary by species.

After a run, operators should turn the unit off, pull the hose back, replace it in its slot and make sure the treated opening is covered so gas does not leak. The presenter added that any burrow openings that did not show smoke should be treated as untreated systems and addressed separately.

Before operating the device, he urged following the manufacturer's instructions and wearing protective gear: eye protection, hearing protection, long sleeves, pants and closed‑toe boots. He warned that carbon monoxide is poisonous and advised arranging applications so operators are not inhaling concentrated exhaust.

The demonstration showed the basic operation and safety considerations but did not include any formal regulatory rulings or approvals; the presenter cited DPR’s classification as the basis for describing how the device is regulated. No formal motions or votes were recorded during the session.