Dangerous fumigant floating off Bay of Plenty

Maritime New Zealand is investigating after an open door in a ship's storeroom resulted in dangerous fumigant canisters being washed out to sea.

The MV Gladiator was heading to China when the box of aluminium phosphide flasks was washed out 200 kilometres offshore from Opotiki.

Bay of Plenty Regional Council spokesperson Reuben Fraser says the fumigant can make people ill, and even kill in high enough doses - but the canisters are safe as long as people don't try to open them.

"The canisters themselves won't be flammable while they're still sealed.

"Don't touch them. Just give the council a bell and we'll come and collect them, and dispose of them safely."

Source: nz.news.yahoo.com; Frances Cook

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