Beachgoers around Lake Michigan are being urged to stay alert and steer clear of any unusual metal objects after three dangerous military flares went missing during a recent training exercise.
The U.S. Coast Guard issued an urgent warning after a joint drill with the Air Force off the coast of Milwaukee earlier this month ended with three phosphorus pyrotechnic flares unaccounted for. These flares, shaped like silver cylinders, are highly dangerous and still considered armed even though they didn’t activate as expected.
One flare was already discovered on Montrose Beach in Illinois on May 26 by a lifeguard. The other three remain missing—and could wash ashore anywhere along Lake Michigan’s shoreline.
The Coast Guard emphasized: If you see a silver cylinder on the beach, do NOT touch it. Stay back and call 911 immediately.
Phosphorus flares are no ordinary objects. When triggered, they release red smoke and flames that burn at a staggering 2,900°F. Contact with one could cause severe injury or worse.
“This is not something to treat casually,” officials stated. “These are live military devices, and even though they failed to go off during the exercise, they still pose a serious threat.”
Whether you’re taking a stroll along the lake or enjoying a summer beach day, remain cautious. Keep kids and pets away from any unfamiliar objects, especially near the waterline.
Authorities are continuing to search for the remaining devices and are asking the public to stay vigilant. Safety comes first—so while the summer sun beckons, a little caution could prevent a serious tragedy.
