Pyrotechnic

A device or material designed to produce light, heat, smoke, or sound through a chemical reaction, commonly used in marine signalling for emergency or distress situations.

Pyrotechnics in the maritime context are essential safety tools used primarily for signalling distress or attracting attention during emergencies at sea. These devices typically include hand-held flares, parachute flares (rockets), and smoke flare signals, all of which are designed to be highly visible or audible over long distances, even in adverse weather conditions. Marine pyrotechnics are regulated by international maritime safety standards, such as those set by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) convention, to ensure they meet specific performance criteria. 

There are different types of marine pyrotechnics, each serving a unique purpose. Red handheld flares, for example, are used to signal distress to nearby vessels or rescue teams, while parachute rockets are designed to reach higher altitudes and be visible from greater distances. Smoke signals, often orange in colour, are used during daylight hours to create a highly visible plume that can be seen from the air or by nearby ships. 

These devices are typically carried on board in lifeboats, life rafts, and as part of a vessel’s emergency kit. Due to the combustible nature of pyrotechnics, they must be stored carefully and handled with caution to prevent accidental ignition. Furthermore, they have a limited shelf life and must be regularly inspected and replaced to ensure they function correctly in an emergency.

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.