Abstract: An improvement in buoyant marine devices, such as pyrotechnic markers, the displacement of which normally decreases during operation as a result of weight loss. The device is provided with a ballast means and means to enable the ballast compartment to fill progressively with water whereby, during operation, displacement of water by the marker is maintained to a degree which will ensure that the device remains in operative orientation. In this way, the problem of tilting by marine markers because of a gradual decrease in weight, to the point that the marker may be easily submerged by water and its operation thereby hampered, is significantly reduced.

Abstract: A self-scuttling buoyant pyrotechnic marine marker. A scuttling pellet of incendiary composition is provided adjacent the pyrotechnic candle, to be ignited as the candle becomes spent and to burn a hole in the side of the jacket, or to clear impurities or residue which may have built up during burning of the candle to block the smoke or flame emission hole of the marker. Scuttling is then virtually assured by simple wave action. In this way, the hazard of spent markers being washed ashore to pose a danger to humans or to pollute the environment is reduced.