The Coordination Centre for Maritime Rescue in Lisbon in conjunction with the Port Authority in Olhão and a detachment of divers from the Portuguese Navy responded to news of a mystery object washed up on the beach on the island of Culatra off Olhão.
When the intrepid divers arrived they found a highly dangerous marine flare which are notoriously dangerous.
Finding this type of device is surprisingly common along the Portuguese coast and due to their intended use require precautions when being handled as they are classified as extremely dangerous, operating as they do at extreme temperatures.
The white phosphorus when exposed to oxygen triggers the high temperature combustion process and can cause severe burns.
The experts warned that this type of device might appear to be harmless and in a secure state, but as seen in this case, the device was fully functional with an almost complete payload.
The advice from the Portuguese Navy should be heeded, if wandering beachcombers find something similar - leave it alone and call 112 or the local Maritime Authority.
