The military in Nova Scotia is advising the public to report any suspected marine location markers and ordnance found on beaches rather than attempting to touch or move them. Despite their aged appearance, these metal tubes still present a serious danger, as highlighted by 14 Wing Greenwood’s explosive ordnance disposal team. Sgt. Ryan Doyle emphasized that these items can reach high temperatures and reactivate, potentially causing harm.
Marine location markers serve as pyrotechnic devices used for signaling positions on water surfaces during search and rescue missions, navigation, and training. These markers contain red phosphorus, which can reignite upon exposure to air, even if the device seems inactive or covered in debris. Disturbing the protective coating by moving or transporting the marker could lead to unexpected reignition.
If individuals come across these markers, they are advised to maintain a safe distance, take photos, mark the location, and inform local law enforcement without attempting to handle the items. An incident involving the discovery of such markers was recently reported by Scotian Shores, a beach cleanup group in Middleton, N.S., who found the markers in Advocate Harbour, N.S.
Angela Riley, the project manager of Scotian Shores, mentioned the challenges faced in reporting such findings and emphasized the need for a more direct line of communication with ordnance disposal teams to expedite the removal process. While Sgt. Doyle expressed openness to the idea of a direct line, he highlighted the importance of involving local authorities for safety protocols and better coordination in handling such incidents.
