Bomb Disposal Team Examines Suspected Grenade in Edinburgh

A routine afternoon in North Gyle Terrace, Edinburgh, took a surprising turn when police were alerted to the presence of a suspected World War II-era hand grenade in the boot of a car. The incident, reported at approximately 15:30, prompted a swift response from bomb disposal experts to assess the potential risk.

The incident and response

Authorities responded promptly to the unusual find, deploying bomb disposal experts to examine the suspected grenade. While initial concerns raised the possibility of an unexploded device from wartime, further investigation revealed the grenade to be non-functional. A Police Scotland spokesperson reassured the public, stating: “There were no explosive parts found in the grenade, and the matter has now been safely resolved.”

The quick resolution underscores the professionalism of the police and explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) teams in addressing potential threats.

A reminder of wartime legacy

While this particular grenade posed no risk, the incident highlights the continued presence of wartime remnants across the UK. Artefacts like grenades, shells, and other ordnance can surface unexpectedly in homes, construction sites, and public spaces, serving as reminders of the nation’s wartime history.

Often, items like this are unearthed during routine activities such as building renovations, land development, or even personal discoveries in attics and gardens. Each case requires careful handling to ensure public safety, even if the device ultimately proves harmless.

Safety first: what to do if you discover suspected ordnance

Finding a suspected explosive device can be alarming, but knowing how to respond is crucial:

• Do Not Touch: Leave the item in place and avoid any handling or movement.
• Evacuate the Area: Ensure everyone remains at a safe distance.
• Contact Authorities: Call the police immediately, providing as much information as possible about the location and appearance of the item.
• Follow Instructions: Wait for EOD specialists to assess and handle the situation.

Public awareness and proper handling are essential in mitigating risks and ensuring swift resolutions.

Brimstone: your partner in UXO risk management

At Brimstone UXO, we specialise in unexploded ordnance risk management, offering services tailored to a variety of industries, including construction, infrastructure, and maritime projects. Our capabilities include:

• Preliminary and Detailed UXO Risk Assessments: Identify potential UXO risks on your site using historical and environmental data.
• Site Surveys and Investigations: Deploy advanced technology to detect, map, and evaluate suspected ordnance.
• Safe Disposal Services: Execute controlled explosions and other neutralisation methods for maximum safety.

As the UK’s only government-assured UXO risk management provider, we bring unparalleled expertise and commitment to every project, ensuring safety, compliance, and peace of mind

Need help with UXO but not sure where’s best to start? Answer a few quick questions and we’ll point you in the right direction.

You can keep up to date with Brimstone by following us on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly known as Twitter), LinkedIn and YouTube.