GASPORT, N.Y. -- Local law enforcement agencies are staying up to date on the latest explosive devices some criminals are using.
Dozens of targets were detonated during an ATF explosives training event on Wednesday in Niagara County. First responders from across the region were on hand to learn about the latest bomb devices being used by those who want to harm others.
"Unfortunately for law enforcement responding to these incidents where chemicals and homemade chemicals were used, it's a challenge," said Gerry O'Sullivan, an ATF special agent bomb technician. "So we just have to try to educate our first responders that maybe if they do roll up on a scene, or do respond to something, they recognize potential precursor chemicals for home made explosives and also components for commercial and military explosives."
Instructors demonstrated what chemical mixtures can do and the power of certain explosives. After the vehicles have been detonated, trainees will come back to the site the next day to conduct a post-blast investigation.
U.S. Attorney William Hochul attended the training and says because of the dangerous times we live in, it's needed now more than ever.
"It's critically essential for law enforcement to know what they're looking for, what they're looking at, so we can ultimately bring those to justice those who try to create these explosive devices and use them in violation of federal law," Hochul said.
ATF officials say they conduct trainings all over the world and train local law enforcement agencies at least every other year.