Table of Contents
What are the three most common types of flares?
There are three basic types of flare, namely the handheld flare, the parachute or rocket flare and the smoke canister. The handheld flare is, as the name suggests, held by the user and burns fast and bright for approximately 60 seconds. The light it generates is very bright and you should not look at a burning flare.
How far can distress flares be seen?
Flare burns bright red for at least 40 seconds. Parachute deploys between 200 and 300 metres. Visibility up to 20 nautical miles.
What should you do before using distress flare?
Distress Flares
- Read the manufacturer’s instructions before using flares.
- Make sure that you fire aerial flares into the wind at an angle.
- Approved flares have a Transport Canada approval stamp or label.
- Distress flares should be stored vertically in a readily accessible, cool, dry, and prominently marked location.
What determines type of distress flares?
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. See the chart for details of the flares required by a particular vessel.
How do you use distress flares?
Use flares only in an emergency. Always read the manufacturer’s instructions before using flares as a safety measure. Aerial flares should be fired at an angle into the wind. If the wind is strong, the firing angle must be reduced.
What do visual distress signals have in common?
Visual Distress Signals (VDS) Visual distress signals include day signals that are visible in sunlight, night signals that are visible in the dark, and anytime signals that can be used both day and night. VDS are either pyrotechnic, which use smoke and flame, or non-pyrotechnic, which are non-combustible.
What determines how many flares 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 are the dangers of using a distress flare?
Distress Flares Flares are excellent distress signals. However, there is potential for injury and property damage if not handled properly. These devices produce a very hot flame, and the residue can cause burns and ignite flammable materials.
What are the different types of flares in Canada?
Transport Canada has approved four types of flares; (see diagram, clockwise from top) parachute flares that float back to earth after being fired, buoyant and hand-held flares to be used on the water’s surface and rockets or shells, throwing red stars fired one at a time at short intervals.
How big of a boat do you need for a distress flare?
Visual signals are not required for boats up to 6m and for human-powered boats. Distress flares are not required for a boat that will never be more than one nautical mile (1.852 km) from shore, has no sleeping quarters or is engaged in an official competition or in final preparation for an official competition.
How long do distress flares last in the sky?
Handheld and Floating canister versions, which last approx 3 minutes. Use for long range distress signalling. Up to 10 miles in daylight, 40 miles at night. Height 300m if fired vertically. Fire at 45º downwind in low cloud or strong winds. Lasts less than 1 minute.