You Received A Phone Call About An Old Military Munition

You Received a Phone Call About an Old Military Munition: What to Do

Finding unexploded ordnance (UXO) is a serious matter, demanding immediate and cautious action. This article comprehensively guides you through the process of handling such a situation, from the initial phone call to the eventual resolution. We'll cover identifying potential UXO, the crucial steps to take after discovery, and how to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you.

Understanding the Severity of the Situation

A phone call detailing the discovery of old military munitions isn't something to take lightly. These items, often decades or even centuries old, can be incredibly dangerous. Even seemingly inert devices can unexpectedly detonate, causing severe injury or death. The risk isn't limited to the immediate vicinity; the blast radius can extend significantly, endangering nearby structures and people.

Identifying Potential UXO

Before we delve into the actions to take, let's understand what constitutes potential UXO. This isn't limited to obvious bombs or artillery shells. It includes a wide range of items, such as:

• Artillery shells: These can range in size from small mortar rounds to large howitzer shells. They may be corroded or damaged, making identification challenging.
• Mortar bombs: Smaller than artillery shells, these are still extremely dangerous if disturbed.
• Grenades: Hand grenades, rifle grenades, and other types of grenades pose a significant threat.
• Mines: Landmines, anti-tank mines, and other types of mines are designed to explode when disturbed.
• Bombs: Aerial bombs, both conventional and unexploded, are a significant danger.
• Fuzes: Even the fuzes (detonators) of old munitions can be highly sensitive and explosive.
• Ammunition: Bullets, cartridges, and other ammunition may contain unstable explosive compounds.
• Other military ordnance: This includes various other types of military devices, many of which may be unfamiliar to the average person.

Never attempt to identify or handle UXO yourself. Even experienced professionals require specialized equipment and training to safely assess these items. Your primary goal should always be to secure the area and report the finding.

Immediate Actions After the Phone Call

The moment you receive a phone call about suspected UXO, prioritize the following actions:

1. Gather Information

Ask the caller detailed questions to gain a comprehensive understanding of the situation. This includes:

• Location: Get the precise location of the suspected UXO, including street address, landmarks, and GPS coordinates if possible.
• Description: Ask for a detailed description of the item, including its size, shape, color, and any markings. Take notes!
• Circumstances of discovery: Understand how the item was found. Was it unearthed during construction, discovered while hiking, or found in an old building? This can provide valuable context.
• Contact Information: Obtain the caller's contact information so you can update them on the situation's progress.

2. Secure the Area

If you're able to reach the location, your immediate priority is to secure the area. Establish a perimeter around the suspected UXO to prevent unauthorized access. This is crucial to prevent accidental detonation and potential injuries. The size of the perimeter will depend on the type and quantity of suspected ordnance. Larger items require a much larger exclusion zone than smaller ones.

3. Evacuate People

Anyone within the perimeter must be evacuated immediately. Do not allow anyone to approach or touch the suspected UXO. This includes pets and livestock. The further away people are, the safer they will be.

4. Contact the Appropriate Authorities

This is the most critical step. You need to contact the relevant authorities immediately. This typically involves:

• Local Law Enforcement: They are the first point of contact for most emergencies, and they can coordinate with other agencies.
• Military Ordnance Disposal Unit: In many countries, specialized military units handle the disposal of unexploded ordnance. Local law enforcement will know how to contact them.
• Emergency Services: If there is an immediate danger, such as a suspected active device, contact emergency services immediately.

Provide the authorities with all the information you've gathered, including location, description, and contact details.

Responding to the Authorities

Once you've contacted the authorities, their response is paramount. Your role shifts to cooperating fully and providing any additional information they may request.

1. Cooperation is Key

Follow all instructions given by the authorities meticulously. This may involve further evacuations, road closures, or other safety measures. Their expertise is vital in handling this dangerous situation.

2. Remain at a Safe Distance

Do not attempt to approach the suspected UXO or interfere with the response. Maintaining a safe distance is crucial to your well-being and the success of the operation.

3. Provide Ongoing Updates

The situation may evolve, so be prepared to offer continuous updates as requested. This could include additional information or observations you've made.

4. Documentation

If possible, document the entire incident. This might include photos (taken from a safe distance), videos, and detailed notes. This information can be invaluable in the investigation and any subsequent clean-up operation.

Post-Incident Procedures

After the authorities have removed the UXO, several post-incident procedures are crucial:

1. Area Assessment

Once the ordnance has been removed and deemed safe, a thorough assessment of the area is often necessary. This is to confirm the area is free of other hazards. This assessment might be conducted by the ordnance disposal unit or other relevant specialists.

2. Follow-Up Procedures

Follow up on any recommendations provided by the authorities. This might involve further site surveys or environmental remediation if necessary.

3. Public Awareness

Share your experience to raise public awareness about the dangers of unexploded ordnance. This can help prevent similar situations in the future.

Preventing Future Incidents

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are steps to minimize the risk of encountering UXO in the future:

1. Research Your Property

Before undertaking any digging or construction projects, thoroughly research your property's history. Look for records indicating previous military activity or the presence of potentially hazardous materials.

2. Professional Surveys

If you suspect the presence of UXO, consider commissioning a professional UXO survey before starting any significant ground disturbance.

3. Education and Awareness

Educate yourself and others about the dangers of UXO. Knowing what to look for and how to respond can significantly reduce the risks.

Conclusion

Discovering old military munitions is a serious event that demands immediate and careful action. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can significantly mitigate the risks and ensure the safety of yourself and others. Remember, never attempt to handle UXO yourself. Contacting the appropriate authorities is the most crucial step in ensuring a safe and effective resolution. Understanding the potential dangers and taking proactive measures can prevent future incidents and safeguard lives. Remain vigilant, informed, and prioritize safety above all else when dealing with potentially hazardous materials.