What indicates that a munition is live?

A munition being live is primarily indicated by the presence of a visible firing pin or safety mechanism. This is crucial because the firing pin is an essential component of the triggering mechanism, which means that when it is in place and visible, the munition is capable of being detonated. Safety mechanisms are designed to prevent accidental activation, and their absence or visibility can signal that the munition is armed and operational. Therefore, observing such features is a key indicator for EOD personnel to assess the status and potential danger of the munition.

Other aspects, such as color, location, or prior reports, do not provide definitive evidence of a munition’s live status. A bright color could be used for both live and inert munitions, and being underground does not inherently suggest a munition's readiness to detonate. While prior reporting may offer useful context, it is not a physical characteristic indicating the current condition of the munition itself.