Raleigh, North Carolina — Authorities warn spring cleaning can sometimes uncover dangerous military explosives inside homes.
As warmer weather arrives across North Carolina and residents begin seasonal cleaning projects, public safety officials are reminding families to exercise caution when clearing out attics, basements, garages, safes, or long-stored boxes—especially in homes belonging to military veterans.
The reminder follows an incident Friday in Ohio where relatives sorting through belongings discovered a World War–era grenade among possessions belonging to a deceased Army veteran.
According to the Butler County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded after the device was located inside a gun safe during a home cleanout. Bomb squad technicians were called to the scene and safely secured the grenade before removing it for evaluation.
Officials say discoveries like this are uncommon but occur periodically across the United States when families begin sorting through belongings that may have remained untouched for decades.
Military souvenirs or equipment were sometimes brought home by service members returning from wartime deployments. While many artifacts are harmless keepsakes, others—including grenades, artillery shells, detonators, or training devices—can still contain explosive materials.
Authorities emphasize that any object resembling military ordnance should be treated as potentially dangerous.
Residents are advised not to touch, move, or attempt to open suspected explosives. Instead, officials recommend leaving the item exactly where it was found and contacting local law enforcement so trained bomb technicians can safely respond.
Spring cleaning often leads families to rediscover photographs, medals, uniforms, and service memorabilia from earlier generations. However, unfamiliar metal objects or grenade-shaped items should always be approached with caution.
The reminder is particularly relevant for younger family members, students, or volunteers helping relatives clean out homes during the spring season.
Authorities say quick reporting allows trained specialists to safely handle these rare but potentially dangerous discoveries.
