LIVE FLARE EVENING WRAP-UP – Thursday, 12th September 2024

In a showcase of both safety and spectacle, the live flare demonstration held at the Club was a huge success. Designed to illustrate the efficiency and safety protocols of flare technology, the event provided a comprehensive look at how these devices function in real-world scenarios for boat owners.

Following the free sausage sizzle, the attendees were briefed on the principles of flare technology, including its role in safely burning off excess gases and preventing dangerous buildup. Other safety devices such as EPIRBs, distress beacons, Electronic Visual Distress Signals (EVDS) and the importance of personal water craft including life jackets were all discussed by John and Dave from Department of Transport Marine Safety.

The Live Action

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the audience was treated to two flare types and the opportunity to set them off, including:

Orange smoke flares:

• emit a cloud of orange smoke
• are designed for day use only and have no luminosity.
• Orange hand-held flares burn for about 60 seconds.

Red-hand held flares:

• are designed for use both night and day
• burn for about 45 seconds at 15,000 candle power
• have a potential sighting range at night is 10 to 12 km and about 4 to 6 km during the day.

The live flare demonstration left attendees with a deeper understanding of flare technology and its critical role on boats. The event not only highlighted the impressive capabilities of modern flares but also reinforced the importance of safety and innovation in their use.

To find out more about flares and EVDS, please visit the Department of Transport’s website