February 24, 2009

ADVISORY NOTICE TO ALL EXPLOSIVES INDUSTRY MEMBERS

Recently, there has been a series of armed thefts of explosives from storage sites in Mexico along the southwest U.S. border.  The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) would like to remind all Federal explosives licensees and permittees of the importance of security at their explosives storage sites, and we advise all industry members to take heightened security precautions in light of these thefts.  This advisory is a precaution and not due to any criminal intelligence. 

Additionally, ATF partners with the explosives industry to protect the public and as part of this ongoing effort, industry members are commended for their voluntary reporting of explosives thefts that occurred in Mexico to the U.S. Bomb Data Center.  Federal explosives licensees and permittees are encouraged to continue the voluntary reporting of explosives thefts that occur in Mexico.

ATF is working with and advising the explosives industry on new developments or methods to prevent thefts and to prevent terrorists and those with criminal intent from gaining access to explosive materials.  We have created the attached checklist of steps that you can take to make your business more secure.  Please review this checklist and ensure that your business is doing everything it can to secure your explosives. 

We also ask that all licensees and permittees review ATF P 5400.15, Safety and Security Information for Federal Explosives Licensees and Permittees, a publication that we produced in partnership with the Institute of Makers of Explosives and the International Society of Explosives Engineers.  We believe this information can identify potential weaknesses in security and offer security precautions to prevent thefts and the illegal use of explosives.  

While these recommendations are mostly voluntary, we appreciate your continued support and welcome any comments or suggestions you may have for future initiatives.  Should you have any questions regarding this notice or these recommendations, please contact your local ATF Field Office.  Thank you for your continued cooperation and vigilance.

Carson W. Carroll
Assistant Director
(Enforcement Programs and Services)

Attachment -

• Security Checklist