Danger on the Shores: Missing Military Flares Wash Up on Lake Michigan

Chicago Residents Urged to Report Missing Military Flares Found on Lake Michigan Beaches Chicago, IL – May 29, 2025 – Residents of the Chicago area are being warned to exercise caution after several military flares went missing following a recent exercise on Lake Michigan. One flare was discovered at Montrose Beach, prompting concerns about the potential dangers of encountering these devices. "These can be really dangerous," stated a news anchor in an NBC Chicago report. The report showed close-up images of the flares, which are described as phosphorous pyrotechnics. A reporter on the scene added, "They were being used between the Coast Guard and the Air Force earlier this month, and then four of them did not activate. They basically went missing." Authorities are urging anyone who finds a similar device to immediately contact emergency services and not attempt to handle it. Three flares remain unaccounted for. The Coast Guard is working to locate the missing flares and ensure public safety.