When can you fire distress flares?
There are a wide variety of signals that can be carried to meet federal boating regulations. The law states that no person may use a distress signal under any circumstances unless assistance is needed because of immediate or potential danger to the persons onboard.
Why is it important to the seafarers to recognize the distress of emergency signals on board?
As far as the seafarer is concerned, first and foremost, he or she must be aware of the different types of emergency situations that can arise onboard a ship. This would help in understanding the real scenario in a better way, and would also lead to taking corrective actions to save life, property, and environment.
When can flares be used?
Most flares have a use-by date of 3 years and they must be replaced before the expiry date. Flares contain explosive matter which makes safe and legal disposal difficult. Flare collection is no longer available at service centres or maritime sites. It will commence again in January 2022.
What determines the number of distress flares required on a boat?
If pyrotechnic devices are selected, a minimum of three must be carried. Any combination can be carried as long as they add up to three signals for day use and three signals for night use. Three day/night signaling devices meet both requirements.
What determines the type of distress flares required on a pleasure boat?
The number and type of distress flares required on board a pleasure boat depends on the length of the vessel, the type of vessel, and the area of operation.
When should you use distress flares and rockets?
Generally there are two types of flares:
- Collision Avoidance Flares: Designed to warn other vessels of your position. These flares give a white light.
- Distress Flares: To be used when there is “grave and imminent danger to life and/or to the vessel”.
What are the preparation when approaching a distress ship?
Stand by communication officer and establish communication. Pass own position and details with relevant search and rescue operation update to RCC. Prepare rescue boat and emergency crew. Obtain current weather situation.
What are safety flares?
Flares are an ideal light and signaling source in an emergency situation because they warn oncoming vehicles about the potential danger in the area. The extremely bright glow of a road flare illuminates surrounding objects, and the light can be seen clearly in any weather and even during snow and rain storms.
What to look for when buying a distress flare?
When buying distress flares, look for a Transport Canada (canadian coast guard) approved stamp or label. An other common feature of distress flares is that they are valid four years from the date of manufacture, which is stamped on every flare.
When do you use flares and distress signals?
If you are in an emergency on the water and need help, you can use distress signals, flares, PLBs and EPIRBs to show you are in distress. Distress signals. Distress signals are used to show that you need help and require immediate assistance. The signals are internationally recognised and must only be used if you are in distress.
How to use distress flares on a boat?
Hand held flares burn at 2000 degrees so safety measures must be taken before using distress flares. Keep protective gloves in flare pack and don’t use flares past expiry date. Move to the leeward side of the boat, hold flare at the base, point flare end up and away from you, ignite and hold high and outboard.
How old do distress flares have to be?
Have a range of distress flares in a sealed pack that can be quickly transferred into the life raft or a set permanently installed in the life raft. Being valid four years from the date of manufacture is a common feature of all distress flares which can be ascertained from a date stamp on each one.
