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Don't Touch These!!! ... Marine Location Marker

The C2A1 Marker Location Marine (MLM) is a buoyant smoke and flame-producing device that is used by ships and aircraft as a positional marker on the water surface.  The MLM is designed to sink to the ocean floor after it has been expended.  However, a small number of MLMs do not completely burn off and remain afloat.  Periodically, members of the public find an MLM that has washed ashore.  MLMs pose a potential hazard to the public that must be taken seriously.  If an MLM is found, DO NOT TOUCH!  MLMs should only be handled by military or police members who have received training on the disposal of unexploded ordnance. 

Please read the questions and answers below for more information about MLMs and what you should do if you find one. 

What does an MLM look like?

The MLM is unpainted natural aluminium in colour.  It may have a green band on the forward end with “CCC” written in white letters.  The MLM is also labelled with clear hazard warnings and instructions to contact police or military.  The MLM is 47 cm (18.5 inches) in length, has a diameter of 7.6 cm (2.9 inches) and weighs 1.7 kgs (3.75 pounds).

What are MLMs used for?

Ships and aircraft use MLMs to mark a specific position on the water surface.  When dropped into the water, they give off large clouds of dense smoke and burn violently for up to 20 minutes, making them an excellent location marker for day and night.  MLMs are frequently used during search and rescue operations and during training exercises to practice emergency procedures and navigation at sea. 

What should I do if I find an MLM?

If you find an MLM, DO NOT TOUCH!  Leave it where it is.  Mark the location of the MLM, call the RCMP, (telephone list) and a person trained in the handling and disposal of unexploded ordnance will come and retrieve the MLM. 

Why can’t I pick up and handle the MLM?

Handling the MLM could result in very serious burns.  The MLM contains white phosphorous, a compound that burns at an extremely high temperature.  Chances are that if the MLM has washed up to shore or a place that you can find it, the MLM has not completely burned off and, therefore, could possibly reignite.  If the MLM reignites, only a total lack of oxygen can put it out.  

Why can’t I transport the MLM to the local police station myself?

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.