Fires Involving Explosives

Question 1

Initial Action (5)

Answer 1

1. Remember that there may be a secondary device.
2. Do not use cell phones, portable radios or other transmitting devices.
3. Evacuate the scene to at least 100 metres. Consider detector dog.
4. If IED is located, obtain assistance of IED operator from Dept. of Labour. Consider Defence Force expert.
5. Give regular sitreps.

Question 2

Scene Exam (3)

Answer 2

1. Once scene is declared safe, conduct exam. Use video and photos.
2. Remember to continually reconstruct.
3. Request attendance of ESR analyst.

Question 3

Identifying the explosive (7)

Answer 3

1. Prioritise identifying the explosive. Evidence crucial to prosecution. Generally, the more powerful the explosion, the less residue it leaves and the more directed the explosion.
2. Low powered explosive will explode in a general manner. Need to be confined (e.g. in a pipe) to have effect.
3. Explosives that explode at a rate of 1200 - 5000 metres per second are characterised by damage occurring in least line of resistance pattern. Windows, doors and walls blow out.
4. Explosives greater than 5000 mps do so in a directional manner. Sometimes straight up and down. Person experienced in IEDs can do this.
5. Because modern explosive residues are often slight and dissipate rapidly, O/C Scene may need to authorise the expert to enter the scene before it has been fully examined. In this case:
   - create a path to the centre
   - have ESR swab immediately (work outwards from centre)
   - vertical sheets of iron adjacent are often good sources of residue.
6. May be necessary to remove body parts promptly.
7. Record impressions of any odours detected.

Question 4

Reconstructing the explosion

Carry out only if…(5)

Answer 4

1. Under supervision of O/C Scene
2. At a suitable range or site
3. In conditions as close to original as possible.
4. In close association with explosives and scientific advisors
5. As a scientific test.

If possible, record with video and photographs.

Question 5

Characteristic Damage (6)

Answer 5

1. cratering
2. spread of debris
3. shredding of materials
4. smell peculiar to the exploded material (almonds)
5. overlay of dust
6. shrapnel marks

Question 6

Electric detonators

You may find… (5)

Answer 6

1. lead wire, which may identify the type of detonator used. Remaining wire is “fly wire”
2. neoprene plug
3. short-circuiting shunt
4. delay setting tag from lead wire
5. fragments of the electric detonator casing (highly unlikely)

Question 7

Bomb/explosive/IED notification

Designed to report… (9)

Answer 7

• bombings and accidental or deliberate explosions
• attempted bombings
• molotov cocktail attacks
• hoax devices
• bomb threats
• suspicious packages
• explosives stolen or recovered
• unlawful possession of explosives
• any other explosives-related incident