Firecrews were this afternoon called to a Canadian naval vessel after a flare on board was accidentally activated sending smoke billowing above the ship.

Coastal defence vessel Glace Bay was berthed on Front Street when the accident happened. It is understood salt water from a stormy crossing got in contact with the flare, accidentally activating it.

Onlookers gathered in the pouring rain to witness attempts to put out the flare — which is designed to run its course before they are fully extinguished.

Officer in tactical command, Commander Chris Ross said: “It burns for about 15 minutes, and once it starts there’s nothing you can do to put it out.”

He added: “The smoke came from a faulty smoke marker which shoots off a three inch flame — the intention is that you puncture it, it releases smoke and marks position to show the position of a man overboard.”

He said he was impressed by the response from Bermuda Emergency services, adding: “They came in a matter of minutes. It was very impressive, a good response by them.”

An investigation to find out the cause is now underway

See tomorrow’s Royal Gazette for full story and a video of the incident.