Concord Police and Fire Assist in Controlled Burn of Degraded Explosive Powders

CONCORD — On Friday, Oct. 9, the Concord Police and Fire responded to a home on Deacon Hayes Road after a resident reported a large quantity of old and degraded explosive powders in a family home.

First responders confirmed the hazard and requested assistance from the State Police Bomb Squad assigned to the State Fire Marshal’s Office. Bomb technicians identified about 40 pounds of smokeless powder and other propellants in dozens of canisters. 

The materials had been legally possessed for reloading ammunition but were no longer needed. Concerned about the safety of the materials, the resident reported them to authorities.

Bomb technicians safely packaged the materials, removed them from the home and transported them to the Concord Compost Site. Once at the site, they carefully emptied the canisters in an open area free of any debris, dead vegetation, or other combustible items.

After a safety briefing for all personnel on-site, bomb techs performed a controlled burn using a remote ignition device to safely and permanently dispose of the materials. The crew of Concord Fire Engine 4 then wet down the area to ensure the fire was completely extinguished.