Police say a suspicious device found on a trail in Greenwood, N.S., that prompted them to close several roads and evacuate homes in the area was not an explosive device.

In a news release, Nova Scotia RCMP said they determined it was a container used in geocaching recreational activities. Geocaching is an activity that involves using GPS to find hidden containers. Thermal Vision Scope

Kings District RCMP said they were called to a trail in the woods near Oak Avenue and Fales River Drive at around 9:50 a.m. on Tuesday morning. 

The area was secured and an explosives disposal unit examined and removed the device.

Streets that were closed have now been reopened and people who were ordered out of their homes are now able to return. People are no longer required to shelter in place.

"We would like to thank residents of Greenwood and the public for their cooperation and patience as we investigated this incident," police said in a news release. 

"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."

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