Whatever you do, don’t pick one of these up


March 30, 2010 · Updated 9:13 AM 

  • 0
  • Print Story
  • Letter/Editor

I have been beachcombing Washington beaches since I was a kid and came across something last week that I have never seen before.

I found a strange cylinder-shaped object during low tide. Some other beachcombers and myself poked at it trying to figure out what it was. They decided to take it home and contact the military or police at home. Can you imagine my shock when I looked it up online (took forever to find):

“The MLM should not be placed in any confined spaces, including a vehicle, because it could reignite and cause a serious fire. Driving with an MLM in your vehicle puts yourself and other motorists around you at risk. The motion of the vehicle could jar the MLM, making it reignite and start a vehicle fire.” (Source: www.navy.forces.gc.ca/marpac/4/4-w_eng.asp?id=691 ).

Please help me to get the word out that these are not to be transported. I’ve been walking beaches for decades and have never come across one of these before. Someone else could easily make the same mistake.

Shannon Laws
Friday Harbor

Comment on this story.

COMMENTING RULES: We encourage an open exchange of ideas in our online community, but we ask you to follow our guidelines for respecting community standards. In a nutshell, don't say anything you wouldn't want your mother to read. Please see our FAQ if you have questions or concerns about using Facebook to comment.

So keep your comments:

  • Civil
  • Smart
  • On-topic
  • Free of profanity

We ask that all participants own their words by logging in with their Facebook account. It's a simple process that will take seconds and helps keep our comments free of trolls, cranks, and “drive-by” commenters. We reserve the right to remove comments from anyone using screen names, pseudonyms or false identities. Please refer to our Terms of Use for full detail on participating on our site.

blog comments powered by Disqus