OFFICE OF THE SHERIFF
Sheriff Curtis L. Landers
225 W. Olive Street
Newport, Oregon 97365
Tel (541) 265-4277
Fax (541) 265-4926
TIP OF THE WEEK
Date: July 18, 2016
DRANO BOMBS
Recently there have been comments circulating about Drano bombs. Drano bombs are extremely dangerous and can cause serious injury and death.
“Bottle bombs” (also commonly known as “Drano bombs” or “works bombs”) are not a new phenomenon; they’ve been a favorite of youthful pranksters for decades, as their construction requires only a few ordinary, commonly available components: plastic soda bottles, aluminum foil, and Drano (or other brand of household drain or toilet cleaner). The combination of the hydrogen chloride or sodium hydroxide in the fluid and the aluminum foil creates a strong chemical reaction which releases hydrogen gas; when that gas builds up to sufficient pressure, it ruptures the side of the plastic bottle, releasing the contents in an explosive burst.
In Oregon, a Drano bomb was discovered at an elementary school in February 2013. Recent email warnings surfaced regarding these devices prompting a tip on what to do if you discover a suspected Drano bomb.
If you are suspicious of a potential Drano bomb, you should immediately do the following:
1. Do not under any circumstances touch the suspected bomb.
2. If possible, isolate the bomb and evacuate the immediate area.
3. Do not put the bomb in water or a confined space. Refer to #1.
4. If you have any reason to believe this is a bomb, do not take a chance or worry about possible embarrassment if the item turns out to be harmless.
5. Call 9-1-1 immediately for professional assistance.
Drano bombs are improvised explosive devices and are very unstable! They are extremely sensitive to shock, friction, impact and heat, and may detonate without warning. Even the smallest devices can cause serious injury or death.
The possession and manufacture of any improvised explosive device, including Drano bombs, is a felony. This crime is a very serious offense!
If you have any knowledge of a crime associated with an improvised explosive, please call the police by dialing 9-1-1.
For more tips and information, visit our website, use the “MobilePatrol” app on your Smartphone, and Like us on Facebook.
