When the U.S. Coast Guard issues a safety alert in Lake Michigan, a joint military exercise becomes potentially dangerous. This exercise’s active flares are undetonated, putting nearby beachgoers in grave danger. Public awareness becomes vital when these military-grade pyrotechnics are used in large quantities.
Militant Oversight Leads to Danger
The U.S. Coast Guard, following a joint exercise with the Air Force, has raised the alarm about missing military flares in Lake Michigan. These highly dangerous flares are armed and emit extreme heat.
This maritime flare, used in a military exercise, washed up on Montrose Beach yesterday. The public is asked to call 911 if they see a similar object. Do NOT touch, move or attempt to handle the item under any circumstances. Contact the U.S. Coast Guard for additional info. pic.twitter.com/Y9uT3WdhzI
— Chicago Police Communications & News Affairs (@CPD_Media) May 27, 2025
One of the flares was discovered at Montrose Beach in Chicago, 90 miles from the exercise area. The public is advised to be wary of metallic objects washing ashore.
Grave Warnings Issued
Beachgoers, particularly around Milwaukee, are urged not to approach these objects. Instead, they should immediately contact emergency services upon discovering potential pyrotechnics.
The Coast Guard is warning about armed military flares lost in Lake Michigan during a training exercise off Milwaukee's shore earlier this month. One of the phosphorus pyrotechnics washed ashore a Chicago beach, three remain unaccounted for. @WISN12News pic.twitter.com/dKosVFiF6h
— Kendall Keys (@KendallKeysTV) May 28, 2025
These military flares are known to burn at temperatures up to 2,900 degrees Fahrenheit. Concerns have been raised about the safety of children playing on the beaches.
Resolution in Sight
The Coast Guard reported that all four missing flares had been located by Wednesday night. However, details concerning their recovery or locations remain unspecified.
“These pyrotechnics are still considered armed when they do not activate,” the Coast Guard alert stated.
Caution remains the prime directive for those frequenting Lake Michigan’s shores. The recovery of these active military devices underscores the necessity for military diligence.