The most common weapon being utilized by criminals and terrorists throughout the world is improvised explosive devices (IEDs) that contain improvised (homemade) explosives. As a first responder, you are increasingly more likely to encounter this type of hazard while responding to a critical incident. This course will provide you with the basic information required to keep you and your team safe. Students will learn to identify basic improvised explosives, identify chemical precursors and equipment used in the illicit manufacture of improvised explosives, the hazards associated with each precursor, safe-handling techniques, and general safety precautions. Students will be safely exposed to live improvised explosive formulations, including several peroxide based mixtures such as TATP & HMTD, which were used in recent attacks in Europe. Students will witness first-hand, the sensitivity and destructive power of improvised explosives, how to safely operate while mixtures are present, and methods of desensitization.