Possible Historic Explosive Unearthed in North Bedeque Potato Field, RCMP Say

A possible historic explosive munition was unearthed during potato harvesting in a farmer's field in North Bedeque, Prince Edward Island, on Tuesday morning, according to the RCMP.

East Prince RCMP said they were called at about 10 a.m. on October 27 about an object believed to be an explosive device. Police said the item had been dug up and collected in potato harvesting equipment working a field near Slemon Park.

Area secured, military called in

Officers went to the scene and secured the area, police said. The RCMP then contacted the Department of National Defence to assess the object and dispose of it.

Trained Department of National Defence personnel retrieved the item in the late afternoon and took it away for disposal, according to the RCMP.

What to do if you find a suspicious object

Cpl. Gavin Moore, media relations officer for the PEI RCMP, said such discoveries are uncommon but do happen on the Island from time to time.

"Any time you come across an object that appears to be an explosive device, do not touch or move it. Move to a safe distance and contact police immediately."

Moore said police treat every report seriously and respond as though there is a real risk of explosion, before bringing in specialized personnel to make sure the item is safely assessed and disposed of.

Police advise anyone who finds an object that may be an explosive to:

• Leave it alone — do not touch or move it.
• Get to a safe distance.
• Call police right away.