Is magnet fishing dangerous?
This new hobby, magnet fishing, a combination of environmentalism and treasure hunting, has snowballed over the past few years and requires almost no special knowledge to get started.
The only equipment required is a powerful Neodymium magnet with a loop attached to it, a strong rope and a pair of gloves. And of cause something in which to put any metallic treasures you may find.
The most dangerous component
The most dangerous component of magnet fishing is the magnet and the type of magnet used. Magnets made from neodymium are the strongest magnets in the world. The force they attract to both iron and each other can cause serious injury if you don’t follow necessary safety precautions.
Why can neodymium magnets be dangerous?
Neodymium magnets are designed to be as strong as possible and are potentially dangerous if you mistreat them. For example, two magnets may slam together and cause sparks or even fires if you aren’t careful. Neodymium magnets are not a solid mass of metal or ceramic but are somewhat compressed powder, hence breaking or fragmenting very easily, causing chunks of metal to take flight.
Can neodymium magnets damage electronics?
Neodymium fishing magnets may interfere with the operation of various electronic items such as cellphones, computers, or other devices. For example, those with pacemakers should never magnet fish, no matter how exciting it is, because the magnets can interfere with how the pacemaker run.
And make sure to wear gloves when handling your magnet, as the pulling force from the magnet may damage your skin. And, Just as importantly, remember to store your magnet in a case that keeps it from slamming into other magnets and protects electronic devices.
Dangerous magnet fishing finds.
While typically quite rare, there is a chance that you could find dangerous items while magnet fishing. For example, you could discover knives, pistols, grenades or explosives in some bodies of water.
“A woman magnet fishing in Wales pulled an unexploded World War II shell from a canal, and in 2015 a young boy pulled an unexploded World War II grenade from London’s Grand Union Canal, all posing risks to those involved. ” source here.
Weapons, shells and explosives.
Weapons, shells and unexploded explosives have been found in the past by many magnet fishers. Episodes like this are now a common consequence of magnet fishing.
Never handle any of these items on your own to avoid contamination or physical injury. Let the police or other law specialists manage this situation for you to avoid any legal dilemmas.
If you follow standard safety guidelines, you should be safe. 👍