A sign posted outside the former Blair Rifle Range Lands warns trail users to keep out Friday. photo supplied
North Shore residents are being asked to keep away from the trails in the former Blair Rifle Range Lands in the Seymour area on Friday following discovery of another mortar shell there.
Explosives contractors, who have been sweeping the site for any unexploded ordnance left over from its time as a military training range, have posted signs warning trail users to keep out between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. on May 4.
According to a statement from the Department of National Defence, residents in the area may hear explosions coming from the site while the trail closures are in effect.
“On May 2, 2018, DND found a potential UXO (unexploded ordnance) item during its ongoing UXO survey work at the former Blair Rifle Range. As part of regular UXO safety procedures, the area has been secured and access temporarily restricted until the item is safely disposed of. DND’s military ordnance disposal team is on site to safely dispose of the item and ensure public safety,” it read. “They have decided that a controlled on-site detonation is the safest way to dispose of the item, so you may notice a loud noise, some smoke, and minimal vibrations. We appreciate your patience and co-operation during this time. Our priority remains the safety and security of the community, and we are committed to keeping you informed.”
This is the third mortar bomb found on the site since February.
The UXO team is expected to be on site walking the trails until May 18.
National Defence advises anyone who happens across something that looks like it may be dangerous to leave it where it is, exit the area the same way they came in and call 911.
