How to use distress flares at sea

FlaresFlares should be kept in a waterproof container in an easily accessible location such as a cockpit locker. There are several types of flare for different purposes:

Red handheld flares:

  • Use as a line of sight distress signal by day and night.
  • Hold with arms outstretched.
  • Point downwind.
  • Don’t look at flare.
  • Lasts approx 1 minute.

Orange smoke distress flares:

  • Use as a line of sight distress signal for daytime use only.
  • Handheld and Floating canister versions, which last approx 3 minutes.

Red parachute or rocket flares:

  • Use for long range distress signaling.
  • 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.

White Handheld:

  • Use to signal your position at night if there is a risk of collision.
  • Hold with arms outstretched.
  • Point downwind.
  • Don’t look at flare.
  • Lasts approx 1 minute.