The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) announced Sunday that its F-16 fighter jets intercepted multiple civilian aircraft after they entered temporarily restricted airspace over Bedminster and East Rutherford, New Jersey.

According to NORAD, more than 10 general aviation aircraft violated the temporary flight restrictions throughout the day. Three of those incidents required direct interception by F-16 fighters to ensure the security of the protected airspace.

During two of the intercepts, NORAD pilots deployed signal flares to attract the attention of the civilian aircraft. Officials emphasized that the flares are used strictly as a visual warning, burn out rapidly, and pose no threat to people or property on the ground, although they may have been visible to nearby residents.

After establishing contact, NORAD safely escorted each of the aircraft out of the restricted area without incident.

Military officials reminded pilots that if they are intercepted by NORAD aircraft, they should immediately tune to emergency frequency 121.5 MHz or military frequency 243.0 MHz, reverse course as directed, and await further instructions from air traffic authorities.

NORAD also urged all pilots to review Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) and Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) before departure to ensure compliance with current airspace restrictions and help prevent unnecessary military responses.