Homemade explosives

Dangers of homemade explosives

Homemade explosive mixes are highly unpredictable. Friction, impact, static electricity and heat can all cause them to explode. They can also become unstable when they are exposed to movement, metals, electricity, moisture, light or atmospheric gases and chemicals.

Homemade explosive devices are never safe. They can kill or maim the maker and people in the immediate area, as well as cause damage to property or serious fires. The damage from injuries can last for life.

Dangers of online recipes

The proliferation of explosives recipes online has been blamed for the increased production of illegal homemade explosive devices. These recipes are dangerous, incorrect and unsafe.

Penalties for homemade explosives

There are severe penalties in Queensland for making, possessing and using explosive devices illegally. Penalties of a fine of up to 400 penalty units or 6 months imprisonment apply for the possession and manufacture of explosives by individuals who do not hold a valid licence to own or make them.

Report illegal explosives use

Report suspicious behaviour by contacting the police in an emergency or the National Security hotline on 1800 123 400.

Indicators and warnings of homemade explosives

Be vigilant and look for signs of children and young adults manufacturing homemade explosive devices. These are some signs you should look out for and actions you can take following any suspicions.

Secretive, unexplained or change in behaviour

unexplained use of hand tools and electrical equipment
unexplained expenditure of pocket money
interest in making things from a combination of chemicals, hardware, electrical items and sources of ignition
secret bags or backpacks.

Unexplained sporting items

tennis, golf and ping pong balls used to hold chemical mixtures
protective equipment such as gloves and padding.

Substances and chemicals

pulling apart large quantities of party poppers, sparklers or caps, accessing explosive mechanisms
acquiring and mixing of house hold chemicals, pool cleaning chemicals or fuels.

Unusual items which can be used to contain mixed chemicals

collection of metal and plastic pipes
mixing equipment
glassware, plastic containers or wooden mixing instruments
electrical and packing tape
different types of hobby material (e.g. specialised glues and screws, nails and plastic caps)
aluminium foil

Computer and social media activity

explosives web sites
search bar activities
formulations and photographs
YouTube videos
chat rooms
Facebook and other social media sites.

Prevention and intervention

talk to your children and discuss their interests
monitor your children's computer time and pocket money
keep chemicals under lock and key
keep chemical storage areas and tool sheds locked
supervise and control children’s activities in chemical storage areas and in tool sheds
look for strange, unexpected or secretive behaviour
seek counsel for your children's suspicious behaviour.

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