Buoyant Orange Smoke Signal
A floating pyrotechnic distress signal that emits dense orange smoke to mark a position in daylight.
It is especially useful for showing wind direction and identifying a casualty or survival craft to nearby vessels or aircraft. Orange smoke is an internationally recognised distress signal.
The device should be deployed to leeward according to its instructions and kept clear of fuel, people and enclosed spaces. It is ineffective as a night light and its usefulness is reduced by strong wind, poor visibility or distance.
Overview of flares and their uses
The table below outlines the different types and colours of flare and a brief description of their use.
| Type | Colour | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Parachute Flare | Red | Indicating your distress when out of sight of other vessels. Rocket flares should be launched in pairs, approximately 1 to 2 mins apart. |
| White | Illuminating a sea area. Useful if searching for a man overboard at night. | |
| Hand-held Flare | Orange (smoke) | Providing directional guidance and wind indication for any search and rescue assets as they approach you. |
| Red | Inidicating your distress when other vessels are nearby. Useful to hold the flare in the direction of potential help. | |
| White | Pinpoint indication of your location making visible your position. Used if you don’t believe a vessel on a collision course has seen you. | |
| Buoyant Flare | Orange (smoke) | Providing directional guidance and wind indication for any search and rescue assets as they approach you. |
Terms with the same meaning:
Buoyant Smoke, Orange Smoke, Orange Smoke Signal
