What type of explosives do EOD technicians typically defuse in domestic law enforcement?

EOD technicians often encounter homemade explosives (HMEs) in the context of domestic law enforcement. HMEs are typically constructed using readily available materials and can pose significant risks due to their unpredictability and the skill level of the individuals creating them. Law enforcement requires EOD technicians to safely assess, handle, and defuse these devices, which may not have standard triggering mechanisms or designs, making their behavior in a response situation particularly challenging.

While military-grade explosives are generally less common in domestic situations as they are typically restricted to military use, and industrial and commercial explosives are more regulated and used for specific purposes, HMEs often represent a more immediate threat in the community. They can be made from household items, making them accessible to those intending to use them for malicious purposes. Therefore, EOD technicians focus heavily on HMEs in their training and operational procedures within domestic environments.