| By Kathy Romita
The Lowell County Bomb Squad returned home yesterday after attending an elite explosives education camp held last week in Metropolis. The 17-member team of bomb disablement experts, headed by Dewey "Zip" Wolf, spent over 50 hours of training in the science of explosives and advanced technologies and methodologies. "Since criminals and terrorists are using more sophisticated devices, we have to learn how to disable [those devices]," Wolf said.
To maintain proper certification and keep up with modern technology, each bomb tech must complete a minimum of 120 hours of training each year. The Metropolis workshop is heralded as one of the best explosives camps for law enforcement in the world, involving agencies from local, state and federal branches. "We're not at liberty to discuss the identities of some of our classmates or the agencies they work for, but let me just say our country is in capable hands," commented specialist Jordan Wixom.
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The camp consisted of daily classroom instruction, range demonstrations, advanced training in vehicle bombs, vest bombs and using robotics as well as post-blast investigation. Handling hazardous materials (HAZMAT), including different chemicals and pollutants, was also covered. Attendees were divided into teams, and various scenarios were staged. Afterwards, students and instructors evaluated each team's success or failure focusing on the tactical approaches used. Wixom said, "These aren't your run-of-the-mill pipe bombs--although we've been trained in handling them as well."
The bomb squad is not a major presence in Lowell County like the Sheriff Department is, and many residents don't know it's here. Wolf explained, "We don't really advertise our existence because we don't want to give anyone ideas. We know we're here. We know we're ready, and that's all that matters." Wixom added, "We haven't had to put our knowledge to the test in a practical situation, but I'm confident we can defeat any bomb that comes our way--so to speak."
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