You Received A Phone Call About An Old Military Munition

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

Receiving a phone call about an old military munition is a serious matter, demanding immediate and careful action. Ignoring such a discovery can have potentially devastating consequences. This comprehensive guide outlines the steps to take, from initial response to final disposal, ensuring your safety and the safety of your community. We'll cover everything from identifying the potential hazard to understanding legal ramifications and reporting procedures.

Identifying the Potential Threat

The first step is careful assessment, even before physically approaching the item. The caller should provide as much detail as possible about the munition:

Gathering Information Over the Phone

• Location: Precise location is critical. Include street address, nearby landmarks, GPS coordinates if available. Knowing the environment (rural, urban, near water) aids responders.
• Description: What does the item look like? Size, shape, color, any markings (letters, numbers, symbols) are all valuable details. Even seemingly insignificant features can be crucial for identification. Do not attempt to handle or examine the item closely. Observe from a safe distance.
• Condition: Is the munition intact or damaged? Are there any signs of corrosion, rust, or leakage? This helps assess the risk of immediate detonation or leakage of hazardous materials.
• Context: How was the item discovered? Was it found during construction, gardening, or cleaning? This may provide clues about its age and history.
• Caller's Information: Obtain the caller's name, phone number, and address – essential for follow-up.

Common Types of Old Military Munitions

Many different types of old military munitions exist, each presenting unique hazards. Familiarizing yourself with the general categories can be helpful, though never attempt identification on your own:

• Artillery Shells: Large cylindrical projectiles, often with a pointed nose.
• Mortar Rounds: Smaller cylindrical projectiles, often shorter and fatter than artillery shells.
• Bombs: A wide variety of shapes and sizes, often with fins or wings.
• Grenades: Small, hand-held explosives, usually with a fuse or trigger.
• Mines: Designed to explode when disturbed, often buried underground.
• Small Arms Ammunition: Bullets, cartridges, and related items. While individually less dangerous than larger munitions, accumulation poses a significant risk.

Immediate Actions: Safety First

Your immediate priority is safety. Do not touch, move, or disturb the munition in any way. Maintain a safe distance. This distance should be considerable – several hundred feet, if possible – until professionals arrive.

Evacuate the Area

If you are the property owner or have control over the area, immediately evacuate the premises and ensure anyone else in the vicinity is also evacuated. A wider evacuation radius may be necessary depending on the suspected type and condition of the munition.

Reporting the Discovery

Reporting the discovery is critical. Different countries and regions have specific protocols. Generally, you should contact:

• Local Law Enforcement: This is often the first point of contact. They will coordinate the response and contact specialized units if necessary.
• Military Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit: If you know the location of a military EOD unit, contacting them directly can expedite the process.
• Emergency Services: In cases of immediate danger or if the munition seems unstable, contact emergency services immediately.

Working with Professionals: Patience is Key

Once the authorities are notified, your role shifts to cooperation.

Providing Information to Authorities

Be prepared to provide all the information you gathered earlier. Clear and accurate communication is essential. Avoid speculation or guesswork; stick to the facts.

Securing the Area

If possible, and only if it's safe to do so, try to secure the area to prevent unauthorized access. This might involve setting up barriers or advising others to stay away. Never attempt to secure the munition itself.

Awaiting the Professionals

The response time may vary. Patience is vital. The professionals will assess the situation, determine the appropriate course of action, and safely dispose of the munition. They are highly trained and equipped to handle these dangerous items.

Legal Considerations

Improper handling of military munitions is illegal and can result in serious legal consequences, including:

• Criminal Charges: Depending on the jurisdiction and the circumstances, charges could range from reckless endangerment to possession of illegal explosives.
• Civil Liability: You could be held liable for any damages or injuries resulting from your actions or inaction.

After the Munition is Removed

After the EOD team has removed the munition, it’s important to:

• Document Everything: Keep records of all communications, dates, times, and names of individuals involved. This documentation can be helpful if any legal issues arise later.
• Follow Up: Follow any instructions provided by the authorities. This might include further inspections or safety precautions.
• Learn From the Experience: Consider the circumstances that led to the discovery. If the munition was found during construction or renovation, consult with experts to ensure that all potential hazards have been identified and addressed.

Preventing Future Incidents

Understanding how old munitions end up in unexpected places is crucial for prevention:

• Historical Context: Research the history of your property or neighborhood. Knowledge of past military activity or industrial uses can help identify potential risks.
• Careful Excavation: If you're undertaking any excavation or construction work, be extra cautious. Hire qualified contractors who understand the risks and follow proper safety protocols.
• Education and Awareness: Educate yourself, your family, and your neighbors about the potential dangers of unexploded ordnance.

Conclusion: Safety is Paramount

Discovering an old military munition is a serious event requiring immediate and careful action. Prioritize safety, gather information thoroughly, report the discovery promptly, and cooperate fully with the authorities. By following these steps, you can minimize risks and ensure the well-being of yourself and your community. Remember, dealing with these items requires expertise and specialized equipment – never attempt to handle them yourself. Your life and the lives of others depend on it.