Hand-held Flare
A hand-held pyrotechnic signalling device that produces a bright light and smoke when ignited, used for distress signalling at sea.
Hand-held flares are essential safety devices carried on boats and ships to signal distress or attract attention in emergencies. They are designed to be held in the hand and emit a bright red or orange flame, often accompanied by smoke, to ensure visibility in both daylight and darkness. These flares typically burn for about one minute and are waterproof, allowing them to function in wet conditions. They are used when a vessel is in distress, to indicate position to rescuers, or to warn other vessels of danger. Hand-held flares are part of the required safety equipment on many vessels, as specified by maritime regulations. They should be stored in a dry, accessible location and checked regularly for expiry dates to ensure reliability when needed. When using a hand-held flare, it is important to hold it downwind and away from the body to avoid injury from sparks or hot residue. Proper disposal of expired flares is necessary to prevent environmental hazards.
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. |
