Behind The Blast: FCPD’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit

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Fairfax, VA— The FCPD’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit (EOD) is one of many specialized units within our Special Operations Division. These brave officers possess exceptional skills and expertise in handling explosive devices, and safeguarding our community from potential threats.

WHO ARE WE?

Our EOD team plays a critical role in ensuring public safety by dealing with explosive devices and hazardous materials. Highly trained and equipped with state-of-the-art technology, the EOD unit is comprised of nine officers who are certified bomb technicians. These officers undergo extensive training, to include training from the FBI Hazardous Devices School for National Certification. Each bomb technician officer must maintain nearly 300 hours of training annually to maintain their certification. The team also utilizes four K9s, who are trained in explosive odor detection.

WHAT WE DO?

The primary responsibility of the EOD unit is to respond to and neutralize explosive threats. These officers are experts in identifying, assessing, and safely disposing of explosive devices such as bombs, grenades, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). These skilled officers use their expertise in bomb detection and disposal techniques to carefully handle and mitigate the risk associated with explosive materials. Whether it’s responding to bomb threats, securing suspicious packages, or assisting during high-risk operations, the EOD unit always stands ready to swiftly and efficiently handle any dangerous situation.

In 2022 our EOD Team responded to 14 calls for service regarding possible explosive ordnances. In 2023, the EOD team responded to 22 calls for service. On each call, possible explosive devices were successfully identified, made safe, and removed. Many of the calls responded to were for events of found old ordnances left by family members and suspicious packages that were left unattended.

Below is an example of what explosive ordinance disposal looks like from our EOD unit:

Our EOD team wants community members who stumble across old explosives or suspected explosive devices, to follow the appropriate precautions for personal safety and the safety of others. Here are five tips to keep in mind:

1. Do not touch or disturb suspected explosives: It is vital to avoid any physical contact with an object suspected of being an explosive, as they may be unstable and highly dangerous. Even the slightest disturbance can trigger an explosion. Maintain a safe distance and prevent others from approaching the area.

2. Report it to the authorities: Immediately notify the local police department or call the emergency services in your area. Provide them with detailed information regarding the location, appearance, and any other relevant details about the suspected explosive.

3. Evacuate the area: If possible, ensure that you and others move away from the vicinity of the explosives. Evacuate nearby buildings, houses, or public spaces to a safe distance to minimize the potential risk.

4. Do not attempt to handle or dispose of the suspected explosive yourself: Leave the handling and disposal of explosives to professionals trained in explosive ordnance disposal. The EOD unit or bomb squad has the expertise and specialized equipment to safely handle and dispose of such materials.

5. Follow instructions from authorities: Once the authorities arrive at the scene, cooperate fully and follow their instructions. They will assess the situation and take appropriate measures to neutralize or remove the explosives safely. Your cooperation is essential in ensuring everyone’s safety during such incidents.

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