The Nova Scotia RCMP says a suspicious item found in a wooded area, which prompted the evacuation of nearby homes and the closure of three roads, is actually a geocache.
Police said Tuesday morning that they were investigating a device found on a trail in the woods near Oak Avenue and Fales River Drive in the Greenwood area. The RCMP explosives disposal unit was called to the scene.
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In the afternoon, police said in a release that the mysterious item was determined to be a geocache.
Geocaching is an outdoor activity, similar to a scavenger hunt, where participants use GPS or other navigational systems to hide and look for containers often containing a logbook and small goodies.
“We would like to thank residents of Greenwood and the public for their cooperation and patience as we investigated this incident,” the release said.
“We would also like to remind the public that when engaging in recreational activities, to please ensure that any containers that they leave unattended, do not resemble explosive devices.”
The closed roads have since been reopened and residents who were evacuated can now return home.
— with files from Mitchell Bailey