What should be done with a shell that has been fired but did not explode?

When a shell has been fired but fails to explode, it is essential to treat the situation with caution to ensure safety. Dousing the unexploded shell with water serves multiple purposes. First, water can help neutralize the chemical components within the shell, reducing the risk of accidental ignition or explosion during the handling process. Secondly, waiting after applying water allows for a period of safety to ensure that the shell is fully incapacitated before taking any further action.

Proper handling of failed fireworks is critical as they may still contain volatile materials that could ignite under certain conditions or through disturbance. By following the recommended procedure of dousing with water and allowing time before handling, individuals reduce the risk of a dangerous situation occurring. The other options, while they might seem practical in some contexts, do not prioritize safety and can lead to increased hazards in the event of an undesired reaction from the unexploded shell.