Flares: What You Need To Know In Case of Emergency

When you’re out on the open water, safety is paramount. One of the most critical tools for ensuring your safety in an emergency is the marine flare. Designed to signal distress and attract attention, flares can be lifesavers when things go wrong at sea. This article will guide you through the different types of marine flares, their proper use, and essential safety tips to remember.

Types of Marine Flares

Marine flares come in various forms, each designed for specific situations and conditions. Understanding the different types can help you choose the right flare for your boating needs.

Hand-Held Flares

Hand-held flares are perhaps the most commonly recognized type of marine flare. They produce a bright, intense light that can be seen from a considerable distance, even in daylight. These flares typically signal distress to nearby vessels or rescue teams. Hand-held flares are easy to use and can burn for several minutes, providing ample time to attract attention.

Parachute Flares

Parachute flares are aerial flares designed to reach high altitudes before deploying a parachute, allowing the flare to descend slowly while burning brightly. This type of flare is particularly useful in open water, where its elevated position and slow descent make it visible over long distances. On a clear night, parachute flares can be seen from up to 40 miles away, making them an excellent choice for long-range signaling.

Smoke Flares

Smoke flares emit a thick cloud of colored smoke, making them highly visible during daylight hours. These flares are especially useful in maritime settings, where the smoke can be seen even in rough seas. Smoke flares are also used to mark locations or signal for help in areas with heavy fog or other visual obstructions. They are typically available in orange, the color most easily seen against the backdrop of the sea.

Multi-Star Flares

Multi-star flares are another aerial flare that launches multiple bright stars into the sky. These stars burn brightly and fall slowly, increasing the chances of being seen by passing vessels or aircraft. Multi-star flares are particularly useful when you need to signal repeatedly over a short period.

When to Use Marine Flares

Knowing when to use a marine flare is crucial. Flares should be reserved for genuine emergencies where immediate assistance is required. Here are some scenarios where deploying a flare is appropriate:

1. Vessel Sinking: If your boat is taking on water and at risk of sinking, deploying a flare can alert nearby vessels or rescue teams to your location.
2. Engine Failure: In the event of a complete engine failure, especially in adverse weather conditions, a flare can signal for help and prevent your boat from drifting into dangerous areas.
3. Man Overboard: If someone falls overboard and cannot be located, a flare can help mark the area and attract immediate assistance.
4. Medical Emergencies: In a severe medical emergency where immediate evacuation is necessary, a flare can expedite the arrival of rescue services.

Steps to Follow Before Using Distress Flares

Using distress flares correctly in an emergency can be a lifesaver. However, improper use can lead to accidents or ineffective signaling, which could delay rescue efforts. To ensure you use distress flares safely and effectively, follow these essential steps before deploying them.

1. Assess the Situation

Before reaching for a flare, take a moment to assess the situation. Determine whether the use of a flare is warranted. Distress flares should be reserved for genuine emergencies where immediate assistance is required, such as:

• Your vessel is sinking or taking on water.
• You have a complete engine failure and are drifting into a dangerous area.
• Someone has fallen overboard and cannot be located.
• There is a severe medical emergency requiring immediate evacuation.

2. Ensure Visibility

The effectiveness of a flare depends on it being seen. Make sure that the conditions are appropriate for deploying a flare:

• Daytime: Use smoke flares or bright-colored hand-held flares.
• Nighttime: Use bright light flares, such as hand-held or aerial flares.
• Weather Conditions: Consider the weather. Heavy rain or fog can reduce visibility, so choose the type of flare that will be most visible in the given conditions.

3. Check for Safety

Safety is paramount when handling pyrotechnic devices. Before using a flare, ensure the following:

• Clear the Area: Make sure the area around you is free of flammable materials and people. This reduces the risk of accidental fires or injuries.
• Wear Protective Gear: If available, wear protective gloves and eye protection to prevent burns and eye injuries.
• Position Yourself Correctly: Stand in a stable position to avoid losing balance when igniting the flare.

4. Read the Instructions

Even if you have used flares before, it’s crucial to read the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific flare you are about to use. Different flares may have varying activation methods and safety precautions. Familiarize yourself with these details to ensure proper use.

5. Prepare the Flare

Before igniting the flare, prepare it as follows:

• Remove Safety Caps or Pins: Many flares have safety caps or pins that must be removed before activation. Do this carefully to avoid accidental ignition.
• Inspect the Flare: Check the flare for any signs of damage or corrosion. Do not use a damaged flare, as it may not function correctly or could be hazardous.

6. Communicate with Your Crew

If not alone, inform your crew or companions about your intention to deploy a flare. Clear communication ensures that everyone knows the situation and can take necessary precautions. Assign roles if needed, such as someone monitoring the surroundings for additional hazards.

7. Choose the Right Flare

Select the appropriate type of flare for your situation:

• Hand-Held Flares: Suitable for signaling nearby vessels or rescue teams.
• Aerial Flares: Ideal for long-range signaling, especially in open water or large wilderness areas.
• Smoke Flares: Best for daytime use, particularly in maritime settings.

8. Position Yourself Correctly

When you are ready to deploy the flare, position yourself correctly:

• Hand-Held Flares: Hold the flare at arm’s length and point it away from your body. Angle it slightly downward to avoid burns and ensure maximum visibility.
• Aerial Flares: Ensure the launch area is clear of obstructions. Aim the flare straight up to achieve the maximum altitude and visibility.
• Smoke Flares: Place the flare on a stable surface and ensure it is upright. Make sure you are upwind to avoid inhaling smoke.

9. Ignite the Flare

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ignite the flare:

• Hand-Held Flares: Typically, you must strike a cap or twist the base to ignite the flare. Once lit, hold it steady and away from your body.
• Aerial Flares: Use the flare gun or launcher to fire the flare into the sky. Ensure you have a firm grip and aim straight up.
• Smoke Flares: Pull the activation cord or twist the base to release the smoke. Once the flare is ignited, step back.

10. Monitor the Flare

Once the flare is ignited, monitor its performance:

• Hand-Held Flares: Hold the flare steady and ensure it continues to burn brightly. If it starts to dim, be prepared to use another flare if necessary.
• Aerial Flares: Watch the flare as it ascends and descends. Ensure it remains visible for the duration of its burn time.
• Smoke Flares: Observe the smoke cloud and ensure it is visible from a distance. Be prepared to deploy another flare if the smoke dissipates quickly.

How to Use Marine Flares Safely

Using marine flares safely is paramount to avoid injury and ensure the signal is effective. Here are some general safety guidelines:

1. Read Instructions: Always read the manufacturer’s instructions before using a flare. Different types of flares may have specific activation methods.
2. Protective Gear: Wear protective gloves and eye protection when handling flares to prevent burns and eye injuries.
3. Clear the Area: Ensure that the area around you is clear of flammable materials. Flares can produce intense heat and sparks.
4. Hold Steady: Hold hand-held flares away from your body and at arm’s length. Point them downward at a 45-degree angle to avoid burns and ensure maximum visibility.
5. Launch Safely: When using aerial flares, ensure the launch area is clear of obstructions. Aim the flare straight up to achieve the maximum altitude and visibility.
6. Monitor Wind: Be aware of wind direction, especially when using smoke flares, as the wind can carry the smoke away from your intended signal area.

Flare Requirements for Boats

Having the correct number of flares on your boat is crucial for safety. Here’s a quick guide:

• Boats six meters or less: Need three flares, excluding smoke signals.
• Boats six to nine meters: Require six flares, excluding smoke signals.
• Boats nine to 12 meters: Should have 12 flares, with at least half not being smoke signals.
• Boats over 12 meters: Also need 12 flares, with half being non-smoke signals.

Maintenance and Storage

Proper maintenance and storage of marine flares can extend their shelf life and ensure they function correctly when needed. Here are some tips:

1. Check Expiry Dates: Flares have a limited shelf life, typically three to five years. Check the expiry dates regularly and replace any outdated flares.
2. Inspect for Damage: Inspect flares for signs of damage, such as corrosion or cracks. Damaged flares should be replaced immediately.
3. Dry Storage: Store flares in a dry, cool location away from moisture and extreme temperatures. Use waterproof containers if storing flares on a boat or in a damp environment.
4. Accessibility: Ensure that flares are easily accessible in an emergency. Keep them in a designated emergency kit or a marked location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Types of Flares Should I Have on My Boat?

The types of flares you should have on your boat depend on the specific requirements of your maritime authority and the conditions in which you are boating. Generally, it is recommended to carry a combination of the following:

• Hand-Held Flares: Useful for signaling nearby vessels or rescue teams. They produce a bright, intense light seen from a considerable distance.
• Parachute Flares: These aerial flares reach high altitudes and descend slowly with the help of a parachute, making them visible over long distances. They are particularly useful in open water.
• Smoke Flares: Emit a thick cloud of colored smoke, making them highly visible during daylight hours. They are especially useful in maritime settings.
• Multi-Star Flares: Launch multiple bright stars into the sky, increasing the chances of being seen by passing vessels or aircraft.

Check local regulations to ensure you have the required types and quantities of flares on board.

How Do I Safely Store Flares on My Boat?

Proper storage of flares is crucial to ensure they remain effective and safe to use. Here are some tips for storing flares on your boat:

• Dry and Cool Location: Store flares in a dry, cool location away from moisture and extreme temperatures. Moisture can cause flares to corrode, while high temperatures can affect their performance.
• Waterproof Containers: Use waterproof containers or storage bags to protect flares from water damage, especially in marine environments.
• Easily Accessible: Ensure that flares are stored in an easily accessible location in an emergency. They should be part of your boat’s emergency kit and marked.
• Check Expiry Dates: Regularly check the expiry dates on your flares and replace outdated ones. Expired flares may not perform as expected.
• Secure Storage: Ensure the flares are securely stored to prevent accidental activation or damage during rough seas.

When Should I Use a Flare on My Boat?

Flares should be used in genuine emergencies where immediate assistance is required. Here are some scenarios where deploying a flare is appropriate:

• Vessel Sinking: If your boat is taking on water and at risk of sinking, deploying a flare can alert nearby vessels or rescue teams to your location.
• Engine Failure: In the event of a complete engine failure, especially in adverse weather conditions, a flare can signal for help and prevent your boat from drifting into dangerous areas.
• Man Overboard: If someone falls overboard and cannot be located, a flare can help mark the area and attract immediate assistance.
• Medical Emergencies: In a severe medical emergency where immediate evacuation is necessary, a flare can expedite the arrival of rescue services.

How Do I Safely Use a Flare on My Boat?

Using a flare safely is essential to avoid injury and ensure the signal is effective. Follow these steps for safe use:

• Read Instructions: Always read the manufacturer’s instructions before using a flare. Different types of flares may have specific activation methods.
• Wear Protective Gear: If available, wear protective gloves and eye protection to prevent burns and eye injuries.
• Clear the Area: Ensure that the area around you is clear of flammable materials. Flares can produce intense heat and sparks.
• Hold Steady: Hold hand-held flares at arm’s length and point them away from your body. Angle them slightly downward to avoid burns and ensure maximum visibility.
• Launch Safely: When using aerial flares, ensure the launch area is clear of obstructions. Aim the flare straight up to achieve the maximum altitude and visibility.
• Monitor Wind: Be aware of wind direction, especially when using smoke flares, as the wind can carry the smoke away from your intended signal area.

What Are the Legal Requirements for Carrying Flares on My Boat?

Legal requirements for carrying flares on your boat vary by country and region. It is essential to familiarize yourself with the regulations in your area. Here are some general points to consider:

• Minimum Quantity: Many maritime authorities specify a minimum number of flares that must be carried on board, depending on the size and type of vessel.
• Types of Flares: Regulations may require specific flares, such as hand-held, parachute, or smoke flares.
• Expiry Dates: Flares must be within their expiry date to be considered valid. Expired flares should be replaced and properly disposed of.
• Permits: Some areas may require permits to carry or use certain flares, especially aerial flares.
• Inspection: Authorities may conduct inspections to ensure compliance with flare regulations. Non-compliance can result in fines or other penalties.