What is a misfire in munitions terms, and how should it be addressed?

• A. A misfire is when a munition fails to function as intended; do not tamper, cordon off area, notify authorities and follow procedures for safe disposal
• B. A misfire means the munition fired but with reduced range; proceed with continued operation
• C. A misfire indicates the weapon is jammed and can be used after cooling
• D. A misfire is normal and requires no action

Answer: (A)

Misfire means a munition did not function as intended when activated. It may still be hazardous, so treat it with extreme care. Do not tamper with it in any way, because attempting to fire, disarm, or move it can trigger an detonation or cause injury.

Keep people away and establish a safe perimeter. Notify the appropriate authorities or explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) personnel and follow the approved procedures for safe disposal or remediation. Do not try to reuse, rearm, or disassemble the munition, and avoid applying heat, impact, or other stimuli. Only qualified personnel should handle or render it safe.

Other interpretations—such as the munition firing but traveling a shorter distance, being jammed and usable after cooling, or being normal and requiring no action—are not correct. A misfire is a failure to function, requiring immediate caution, isolation, and expert disposal.