An emergency flare is a powerful, red, and bright flare that emits a constant red light for a long time. In addition to emergency flares, there are also hand-held emergency flares that emit a visible signal. Pyrotechnic emergency flares (those that burn) are subject to fireworks regulations and must be stored safely.
In addition to red flares, there are also orange smoke signals for signaling distress.
When Can You Fire Emergency Flares?
Emergency flares are only for emergencies. It is illegal to fire them for fun – even on New Year’s Eve.
An emergency situation could be, for example:
- Fire on board
- Capsizing
- Collision
- Person in danger
- You have alerted and help is on the way, but you are difficult to find
If you have the opportunity to alert and call for help yourself, it is usually a better solution than emergency flares, or you can combine the two if you are far from help.
From time to time, sailing clubs are allowed by the authorities to test how to fire emergency flares, and you can practice with some that are close to the expiration date.
How to Store Emergency Flares?
To ensure optimal storage of emergency flares, it is recommended that they be kept dry and away from heat and fire. The best practice is to store them in a waterproof bag that is easily accessible in the event of an emergency. A popular option is a waterproof bag called a “grab bag”, which can be purchased in many marine stores and comes with the recommended emergency flares.
What Do Emergency Flares Consist of?
- Projectile: This is the actual rocket body that contains the motor and fuel. Projectiles are typically made of durable material such as plastic or metal to withstand the extreme conditions at sea.
- Motor: The motor is responsible for igniting and burning the fuel, creating a powerful discharge of gas and smoke that propels the rocket into the air. The motor can be solid or liquid depending on the type of rocket.
- Fuel: Emergency flares can use different types of fuel depending on the model. Solid rocket motors often use a combustible material such as powdered rocket fuel, while liquid fuel rockets typically use a combination of flammable liquids such as hydrazine and nitrogen oxide.
- Parachute: Some emergency flares are equipped with a parachute or parasol that deploys when the rocket reaches its maximum height. This helps to slow the rocket down and ensure that it does not fall back down with great force or burn up during the descent.
What to Do If You See an Emergency Flare?
If you see an emergency flare in the sky, it is important to act quickly and follow these steps:
- Observe: Make a note of the exact time and direction in which you saw the emergency flare. If there are other people nearby, inform them of the observation.
- Contact the authorities: Immediately call the local rescue services or Coast Guard and inform them of the emergency flare observation. Use VHF if you have one. Provide all relevant information, including the time, direction, and any additional details you can remember.
- Assess the situation: Will you be able to sail to the injured and save lives, or will you possibly make things worse?
- Avoid taking dangerous actions: If you are near an emergency flare, avoid handling or attempting to manipulate it. Emergency flares can be dangerous, and it is best to leave handling to the appropriate authorities and rescue services.
- Be aware of rescue vessels: If you are near a coastline or on the water, be aware of any rescue vessels or helicopters that may be en route to the emergency position. Be prepared to provide information and help if requested.