The recent discovery of what turned out to be an unexploded grenade at the shoreline has prompted the Bermuda Police Service to warn the public not to “touch or move suspicious objects that may be military munitions or explosive devices”.

The device, found near a beach, was handed in at a police station.

A joint BPS and Royal Bermuda Regiment explosive ordnance disposal team “safely dealt with the object”, police said.

A spokeswoman added: “Transporting any suspected explosive device or what could be military munitions in the form of flares, shells or grenades can pose a serious risk to the person handling it and to anyone nearby.

“Military munitions are designed to kill or injure and should be treated as live until proved or rendered safe.

“These devices may remain dangerous for many years, regardless of their age, appearance or exposure to the elements.”

Anyone encountering a suspected explosive device was advised not to touch, pick up or move it, but to keep away and discourage others from approaching.

From a safe distance, call 911 and provide details about its location and appearance.

She said: “Never transport a suspected explosive device to a police station or any other location. Such objects should only be handled by appropriately trained personnel.

“If you are unsure what an object is, do not take chances. Leave it where it is and contact the police.”