I need some advice. Quick if you are able.

[mael]

I found a canister for an experiment I am planning. It's part of some kind of life-saving device I happened upon whilst killing some time at the beach.

I found it amongst a pile of garbage at a small fishing boat harbour.

It seems to be in good condition except the plastic float/light unit is cracked and therefore the lights wouldn't be operative. But the SS cannister seems to be unused/un-activated.

But I am worried about what is inside it.

It turns out I've found a buoy/marker, smoke/light signal device.

It is about 40 cm long and made of stainless steel. The diameter of the canister is approximately 10 cm.

There was a plastic float/light ring around it.

As I said, I just wanted the canister, and I loosened one of the three screws holding the top on. At this top/lid there is a small ring induction-welded on the top in the middle.

When unscrewing I noticed a release of gas. It may have been inflammable. It had a sweet and cloying smell, but I can't describe it well. The smell lingered a while.

So I put the screw back home and put the canister outside for the moment.

Now after some internet checking I have discovered it is an automatic smoke-signalling device with lights. I wanted to find out what was inside it as I really do want the container. But I'm very concerned it might be dangerous to open it.

Apparently it is supposed to emit orange smoke, and it is activated by pulling a cord somewhere. But I am not sure as the only place with a pull tag I could find is the one at the top which seems to be a lid, which is held on by three screws.

I also learnt it is classified as a hazardous device and requires special handling for deliveries, and that it is technically a pyrotechnic device.

Can anyone let me know what is inside it? And whether it is a good idea to open it?

* I have half a mind to take it somewhere and dump it again.

[FlashBang]