Top 5 Tips for Storing and Using Flares

Flares: A Vital Safety Tool for Boaters

Flares are an essential part of your safety equipment on the water. These distress signals are designed to attract attention and guide rescuers to your location in an emergency. Knowing how and when to use flares can make all the difference in critical situations. Here’s what you need to know about flares and how to store and use them effectively. Read on for our top 5 tips for using and storing Flares.

Types of Flares

In Australia, if you’re heading out on open waters (for recreational boaters), you are required to carry two types of flares:

Orange Smoke Flares: For daytime use, these create a vivid orange smoke
Red Hand Flares: Suitable for both day and night use (keep them for night use in the first instance), these produce a bright red light

You must carry at least two of each type on your vessel. It’s crucial that everyone on board knows where the flares are stored and how to ignite them.

Know Your Flares: Read the Instructions

Emergencies can happen at any time, including in the dark, so it’s crucial to read the instructions on your flares before heading out. Many flares have tactile indicators to help you identify them in low visibility: on most brands, orange smoke flares feature an “O” on the cap, while red hand flares have an “X.” These raised symbols allow you to feel which flare you are holding, ensuring you deploy the correct one at the right time.

Important Information About Flares

Flares have a limited shelf life, expiring after three years. It’s essential to:

Replace flares before they expire
Dispose of expired flares safely through designated disposal programs. For more information, see Expired Marine Flare Disposal.

Update on Electronic Flares

While electronic visual distress signals (EVDS or electronic flares) are gaining popularity in some countries, currently they (or LED flares as they are also know) do not meet the Australian Standard required for compliance with NSW boating legislation. While they can be carried on a vessel as an additional safety item, they cannot replace the standard pyrotechnic marine flares required by law.

Use a Waterproof Container: Store flares in a sealed, waterproof container to protect them from moisture and damage. The container should be easily accessible in an emergency.
Check Expiry Dates Regularly: Inspect your flares periodically to ensure they are within their expiry date. Replace expired flares promptly.
Practice Makes Perfect: Familiarise yourself and your crew with the operation of flares. Conduct drills to ensure everyone can locate and ignite them quickly if needed (do not let them off unless you are at a controlled/professional organisation’s demostration/training or if you need them in an emergency of course!)
Position Strategically: Keep flares in a designated location that’s clearly marked and known to everyone on board. You’ll probably need them quickly in an emergency – you don’t want to search for them or move items to reach them.
Use Wisely: Only ignite flares when you believe there’s a chance of them being seen. Use them to signal nearby vessels or rescue teams, and conserve flares for when they are most likely to be effective. Remember: they are used to pinpoint your location.

Stay Prepared and Compliant

Carrying the correct flares and knowing how to use them is a critical part of boating safety. By following these tips and staying informed about regulations, you can ensure you’re ready for any emergency on the water.

For more information on flare requirements and disposal, visit Disposing of expired marine flares.