Introduction to the Incident
The Chicago police bomb squad rushed to Montrose Beach Monday afternoon when a lifeguard spotted a suspicious “torpedo-shaped” object that washed up on shore. The item, 18-inches long with military markings written on it, was found at about 5:47 p.m. and it was at first thought to possibly be explosive, according to Chicago Police and the Office of Emergency Management and Communication.
Identification of the Object
After the U.S. Coast Guard Sector Lake Michigan was notified and sent photos, the object was identified. It was an “undetonated” military smoke-and-flame flare used to help with visibility when searching for a vessel or person in the water. Police officers the bomb unit safely removed it from the beach, which was not closed down due to the incident.
Origin of the Flare
The coast guard dropped four of these flares, called a Mark 25, during a training off the coast of Milwaukee during a training earlier this month with the U.S. Airforce, U.S. Coast Guard Sector Lake Michigan Public Affairs Officer Joe Neff said. Usually, when the flare hits the water, it will go off emitting red smoke and flames. But these four did not.
Safety Precautions
Unsure as to why the flares did not go off, the U.S. Coast Guard deemed it unsafe to retrieve these items and left them leaving them in the lake to drift toward Chicago. Neff said if beachgoers happen to find a flare — a silver cylinder about 15 to 18 inches long with U.S. Navy markings — it is unsafe to pick up. “Inside (the Mark 25), the phosphorous pyrotechnic burns very hot,” Neff said. “If it were to activate, while someone was holding it or they know, if they picked it up and put it in a vehicle, it would burn them and potentially harm others.”
Procedure for Handling Undetonated Flares
If a Mark 25 flare is found, stay clear and contact the police so it can be properly handled. It is crucial for beachgoers to be aware of the potential risks associated with these undetonated flares and to follow the proper procedures to ensure their safety and the safety of others.
Conclusion
The incident at Montrose Beach highlights the importance of being vigilant and aware of potential hazards, especially when it comes to military equipment. The U.S. Coast Guard and local authorities are working together to ensure public safety, and it is essential for the public to cooperate and follow the guidelines provided. By being informed and taking the necessary precautions, we can minimize the risks associated with undetonated military flares and enjoy our beaches safely.
FAQs
- Q: What should I do if I find a Mark 25 flare on the beach?
A: Stay clear of the flare and contact the police immediately so it can be properly handled. - Q: Are Mark 25 flares dangerous?
A: Yes, undetonated Mark 25 flares can be very dangerous as they contain phosphorous pyrotechnic that burns very hot and can cause harm. - Q: How can I identify a Mark 25 flare?
A: A Mark 25 flare is a silver cylinder about 15 to 18 inches long with U.S. Navy markings. - Q: What happens if a Mark 25 flare is handled improperly?
A: If a Mark 25 flare is handled improperly, it can activate and cause burns to the person holding it and potentially harm others.
