Los Angeles: The LAPD Explosives Section (Bomb Squad) has been serving the residents of Los Angeles since 1950. The Section is comprised of highly trained officers and explosive detection canines. The Section responds to over 900 calls for service yearly and is responsible for handling, transportation, and rendering safe all explosive items located within the City.

The Explosives Section is continually striving to improve the quality of its contacts with the community and is dedicated to enhancing public safety at the scene of any incident involving explosives. The recent increase of high profile cases, involving explosive devices, has generated an increase in public awareness and the need for quality equipment and training to match these new threats. The Explosives Section has set specific goals designed to promote not only the safety of police personnel, but also the public at large in dealing with explosive devices and bombings.

Commander Sharon Papa, Department spokesperson, states, "If a suspicious item is found that might be a "bomb," call 911 immediately to request assistance and clear the area. Only conventional telephones should be used, because cellular telephone transmissions have the potential to detonate a bomb. It is imperative that individuals observing suspicious and/or unfamiliar devices take the following precautions."

• DO NOT TOUCH OR HANDLE THE DEVICE

• STAY AWAY FROM THE DEVICE

• IMMEDIATELY CALL THE POLICE

The Explosive Section has technicians who respond to all explosive related incidents throughout the City. The Explosive Section maintains an on-call team to respond to calls 24 hours a day. Each technician carries the essential equipment required to handle the variety of explosive related incidents. The equipment is used daily to render explosive devices safe, while protecting the community and property of the City of Los Angeles.

For additional information of the safety measures that need to be taken when confronted with an explosive and/or incendiary device(s), visit the "Crime Prevention Tips" or contact Sergeant Michael Peterson at Community Liaison/Crime Prevention, 213-485-3134.

This press release was prepared by Public Information Officer Jason Lee, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.