Residents of Texada Island are advised to be aware of flares and smoke cannisters that may wash up along the western shore.
Royal Canadian Air Force 19 Wing Comox issued a press release explaining that the waters around Texada are used as an active pyrotechnics range for training search and rescue crews in the effective and safe use of high intensity parachute flares and marine smoke markers.
“Flares are used in military search and rescue operations and training in order to illuminate the night sky, while smoke canisters are used to aid in the rescue of people at sea,” the release stated. “While both of these devices are designed to sink after use, occasionally, these devices may wash ashore before this happens.”
Both devices are hazardous if mishandled. The public is asked not to pick up or retain such objects as souvenirs. If found, people are asked to notify the local RCMP or 19 Wing Operations Centre 1.866.488.0889 and arrangements will be made to dispose of the items in a safe manner.
