What are the two greatest threats to explosives?

• A. Fire and heat
• B. Flooding and wind
• C. Humidity and corrosion
• D. Vibration and impact

Answer: (A)

Heat and flames are the biggest threats to explosives because they provide the energy that can push a stable energetic material over its ignition threshold. Heat raises the material’s temperature, accelerating chemical reactions and lowering stability, which can lead to decomposition or a dangerous buildup of energy. A fire delivers sustained heat plus an ignition source, making ignition highly likely if the explosive isn’t properly protected. In storage, handling, or transport, preventing exposure to heat and flames is the most effective safeguard, through temperature control, shielding, and fire protection. Other factors like humidity, corrosion, wind, or vibration can affect stability over time, but they do not pose the immediate, energy-delivery risk posed by heat and fire.