Residents evacuated after World War One bomb taken to pub

Residents in Pontardawe, South Wales, were evacuated from their homes after a possible World War One bomb was brought into the Pink Geranium pub on Wednesday evening. The incident, which could have resulted in serious harm, highlights the dangers posed by unexploded ordnance (UXO) and the importance of appropriate handling when these items are discovered.

South Wales Police received a report about the suspected explosive device around 7:25pm. According to police, the device was taken into the pub, prompting authorities to establish a cordon and evacuate nearby homes as a precautionary measure.

Swift action by authorities

A police spokesperson explained the measures taken: “We cordoned off a road in the Pontardawe area of Swansea following a call received around 7:30pm that what is believed to be a World War One explosive device had been found at that location. The device was isolated, and a number of local residents were evacuated from their homes as a precautionary measure.”

The Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team arrived promptly to assess the situation. By midnight, the bomb disposal specialists had safely removed the device, and the area was declared safe. South Wales Police released a statement expressing gratitude for the public’s cooperation: “We are able to confirm that the device found earlier in Pontardawe has now been removed by bomb disposal and the area declared safe. We would like to thank the public and local residents for their patience.”

The importance of proper UXO handling

While this incident ended without injury, it underscores the critical need for public awareness about the dangers of UXO. It is not uncommon for historic explosives such as World War One bombs to resurface, especially in areas with a history of military activity. If you come across a suspicious object, follow these crucial safety steps:

Do not touch or move the item. Even if it appears old or inactive, UXO can still be highly dangerous.

Clear the area. Ensure that others, including pets, stay at a safe distance.

Contact the authorities immediately. Professional assessment and removal are essential to ensure safety.

Brimstone UXO: your partner in risk mitigation

At Brimstone, we specialise in providing comprehensive UXO risk management services, ensuring the safety of residential and commercial areas. Whether it’s a risk assessment, a detailed survey, or full UXO clearance, our expert team is equipped to handle even the most complex cases.

We pride ourselves on our ability to mitigate risks while minimising disruption to local communities. With decades of combined experience, we’re a trusted partner for construction teams, homeowners, and businesses navigating UXO-related challenges.

If you have a site that you would like advice on, please contact our Commercial Team for an informal discussion.

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