INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — Thursday a beachgoer reported seeing a gray box, approximately two feet long in the surf near the 13000 block of A1A in the north part of Indian River County, according to the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office.
The box had a warning sticker which identified it as containing phosphorus and directing anyone who finds it not to handle and to contact the law enforcement or the military, said a Sheriff’s press release.
The caller notified the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office and a deputy then contacted officials from Patrick Air Force Base in Brevard County. Officials from the Air Force noted that the item was a phosphorus flare commonly used by the U.S. Navy in search and rescue training exercises.
Traditionally, these flares completely burn when used but this one failed to do so and as a result, floated to shore. The military representative noted they are designed to float if they do not burn completely but that the contents remain flammable and can ignite when dry and exposed to air, said authorities.
The flare was removed from the area by members of the U.S. Air Force from Patrick AFB.
Anyone who may find an item which is similar to the one found yesterday should not disturb it and should remain a safe distance. When safe to do so, they should also contact law enforcement.
A search of the area did not reveal any additional devices.
