Utah State University Bomb Squad Has Some of the Most Modern Safety Equipment Available

The Utah State University Bomb Squad, a specialty unit in Utah State’s Police Department, has some of the most modern equipment available used to remove and destroy explosive items. 

 

“Our technology is as advanced as the equipment bomb squad units use in much larger cities,” said Steve Milne, lieutenant for Utah State’s Police Department and commander of Utah State’s bomb squad.

 

In April 2004 the squad received a robot used to enter situations too dangerous for humans.  The $160,000 robot was paid for by grant money provided by the Department of Homeland Security.

 

 “The robot allows us to examine a potentially dangerous scene, survey the situation and relay information about suspicious items,” said Milne.

 

The robot is equipped with an x-ray machine used to examine questionable devices or packages. It has a two-way communicator to assist in hostage rescue and it has the ability to climb stairs and maneuver through most areas.

 

The squad receives calls on a variety of situations, including aged and homemade explosives.  They often respond to calls concerning juveniles experimenting with explosive devices.

 

“The most common call we receive is from individuals who come across old explosives,” said Milne. “Explosives, such as dynamite, become sensitive and dangerous as they deteriorate. We go out and disable and remove them.”

 

The squad transports the robot in a trailer along with specialty bomb suits and helmets.

 

Milne said prior to 9/11, he was the only bomb technician in Utah. Following the incident, the Department of Homeland Security issued grant money throughout Utah communities. Cache County was then able to create a bomb squad of its own.