Marina Safety Spotlight: Flares

As boaters, we all hope that our boating experiences will be of the fun and stress-free variety, without any 'type two' fun adventures. However, you never know when you might need to call for help, no matter how well prepared you are to put to sea, and it's always best to be ready for whatever comes your way.

MIN 542, which pertains to recognised distress signals, was updated in April this year. It's essential for boaters to stay updated on flare safety regulations and best practices so let's dive into what every boater should know;

MIN 542 Amendment 3

MIN 542 provides guidance on the use of pyrotechnic distress signals, including flares, by pleasure vessels in the UK. The latest amendment aims to enhance safety measures and ensure compliance with international standards whilst also detailing the risks of relying on non-SOLAS* distress alerting equipment such as EVDS**. 

*The International Convention for the Safety of Lives at Sea

**Electronic Visual Distress Signals

Why Flares Still Matter

In an age where technology dominates many aspects of our lives, some might question the necessity of carrying flares when modern communication and distress alerting devices are safer and easier to store and carry onboard. However, relying solely on modern technology can be risky for several reasons:

1. Reliability: While technology such as GPS and VHF radios are valuable tools for communication and navigation, they are not infallible. Mechanical failures, battery depletion, or signal blockages can render these devices ineffective when you need them most.

2. Limited Coverage: In remote or offshore locations, where boaters might encounter distress situations, phone coverage may be unreliable or nonexistent. Flares provide a visual distress signal that can attract attention over a significant distance, even when other forms of communication are unavailable.

3. Visibility: In adverse weather conditions or low-light situations, visual signals like flares are often more effective than electronic signals. Flares provide a bright, easily identifiable indication of distress, aiding rescuers in locating and assisting the vessel in distress. 

It remains that flares are still recommended as an integral part of a boat's safety equipment, to be used in conjunction with other distress signalling devices such as VHF radio and EPIRB's as well as your phone, to alert rescue and emergency servies to your position.

Best Practices for Flare Safety

• Regularly check the expiration dates of flares and replace them as needed. This is particularly relevant if you are intending to head across to France where there have been several reports in previous years of boat owners being penalised for carrying out of date flares. The assumption is that, once out of date, your flares become mere explosives rather than legally acceptable distress signalling equipment...

• Store flares in a suitable container in a dry, easily accessible location on your boat. It's no good having to dig out everything else in a locker to get to your flare box in an emergency situation.

• Ensure that all crew members are familiar with the operation of flares and understand when and how to use them safely.

• Run through and practice emergency procedures with your crew, including the deployment of flares and other distress signals and procedures.

• In the event of an emergency, if possible, use your VHF radio or other communication devices to contact the Coastguard or relevant authorities about your situation and use your flares to assist them in pinpointing your location.

Have a read of the RYA's guide on their website for more information on the different types of flares and when and how to use them.

Disposal

The debate on safe disposal of flares and who is responsible rages on since the disposal points at MRCC centres were withdrawn a few years ago. Here are some useful links to help you find your nearest solution;

• RYA
• The Green Blue
• Ocean Safety