How are mines detected and removed?
A. The most reliable method of detecting and removing persistent landmines still involves using a metal detector and prod, working slowly and methodically to clear a minefield inch by inch. Other technologies such as mechanical flails or ground sifters are faster, but typically not as reliable. The use of mine-sniffing dogs can greatly facilitate the work, but it is still up to the person to probe and dig out the mine. The mine can then be either lifted or destroyed in place with a small amount of explosive. Non-persistent mines are typically laid on the surface and destroy themselves within a relatively short period of time.
