Authorities issue warning about 'bottle bombs'

SAN DIEGO COUNTY - The San Diego County Sheriff's Dept. and North County Fire Protection District are advising people to be aware of an item that may appear to be a 'bottle bomb.'

Both agencies confirmed that there have not been actively reported problems in the Fallbrook area regarding these, but that it is a regional matter.

"It's a dangerous prank that has people posting videos all over the Internet," said the Sheriff's Dept. "Bottle bombs are commonly referred to as "dry ice bombs" and "acid bombs."

According to the Sheriff's Dept., "In other parts of the country, bottle bombs are being detonated in mail boxes and lawns. The bottles contain a combination of household cleaning products and aluminum foil or water and dry ice creating pressure. When the bottle can no longer hold the pressure, it explodes. Jagged and sharp pieces of the plastic become shrapnel which in turn causes injury. The chemicals can cause severe burns and breathing problems.

The Sheriff's Bomb/Arson Unit says three people were hurt in bottle bomb explosions in San Diego County last year. This is a serious crime. People caught setting off bottle bombs can face felony charges which means time in prison.

Citizens are advised not to touch something that may appear to be a bottle bomb as the devices are unstable and can explode at any moment.

"Maintain a safe distance and call 911," they advised.

Authorities also ask individuals on social media to please not post how they think the bottle bombs are made, for everyone's safety.