What is an important safety practice near UXO?

Reporting and avoiding the area is crucial when dealing with unexploded ordnance (UXO) because it minimizes the risk of injury or exposure to hazards associated with the ordnance. UXO poses a significant danger, as it may detonate unexpectedly if disturbed or handled improperly. By reporting the location of the UXO to the appropriate authorities, emergency services can take the necessary precautions to secure the area and ensure public safety.

Avoiding the area is equally important as it protects not only the individual who discovered the UXO but also others who may inadvertently enter the vicinity. Creating a safe perimeter prevents accidental contact, reducing the likelihood of an explosive event. This practice underscores the importance of situational awareness and responsive community action in the presence of UXO.

The other options, while they may involve actions taken in relation to UXO, do not prioritize safety in the same way. Approaching to examine the ordnance or marking it for future retrieval can increase exposure to danger if the UXO is triggered. Allowing only trained professionals to handle it is important but assumes that there will be an immediate response by those professionals. In contrast, reporting and avoiding the area is a proactive response that can prevent accidents and save lives.