How To Identify Military Bomb Shells

Children in areas of war and conflict are at high risk from military bomb shells.

The United Nations estimates that, at the time of publication, there are more than 110 million active landmines hidden in almost 70 countries around the globe. Other military dangers include cluster bombs and other live ammunition or unexploded ordinances that are scattered in war-torn areas of the world. These military bombs do not discriminate and cause a high rate of civilian death and injury, including among children. International aid workers who travel to these areas to provide humanitarian relief are also at immense risk. If you live or are traveling to an area of war or conflict, it is imperative that you are aware of these dangers and learn to recognize the risks.

Instructions

1. Look for objects that are metallic in nature and appear out of place. Military bomb shells may also be painted in black, white and other colors and can be very small or very large. Do not handle the object but you may be able to see identifying serial numbers or stamps on them that state where they are made or which military they belong to.

2. Check for any metallic objects that are partially buried or covered in dirt. These may be buried landmines. They may be located along busy roads or in empty fields and farmland.

3. Look for objects on the ground that do not appear to belong to anyone. These include the more obvious possible bomb shells such as metallic objects and metal shrapnel pieces and also familiar-looking everyday objects. Landmines are often made to resemble toys and other harmless objects to entice children and others to pick them up.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not handle any military bomb shells. Allow professionals to clear away and identify any type of military ammunition.

• Take busy routes when walking through fields, forests, towns and villages. These areas have usually been cleared of landmines and unexploded bombs. Do not venture off on your own without a local guide to show you where it is safe to walk and drive.

• Never handle a military bomb shell or piece of shrapnel or get too close to it. Even exploded ammunition can contain traces of radioactive materials and other chemicals. They may also be hot or sharp and cause burns and injury.

• Avoid areas of recent past shelling and battle. These may contain unexploded military bomb shells. These include beaches and lakes, rivers and other bodies of water that may contain unexploded military weapons.

References

• United Nations: Landmines Factsheet
• Military Factory: Artillery Gun Systems
• Cluster Munition Coalition: The Problem: Cluster Bombs