Unexploded ordnance (UXO) is ammunition which has been fired, but has not functioned as designed. UXO can be particularly dangerous as all the normal safety features have been overcome.

What to do

The size or shape of any item of ammunition does not indicate its potential danger. Explosives are unstable compounds that become more sensitive as they age. Quite small items can kill and maim if handled. 

UXO includes: 

• sea mines or shells used by the Navy
• mortar bombs, mines, bombs, artillery shells or hand grenades used by the Army
• rockets or missiles used by the Air Force
• training munitions.