Why Choose Fisheries Supply for Marine Flares?
Fisheries Supply is a long-established source for USCG-approved marine flares and complete marine flare kits. Our inventory covers core visual distress signals used on recreational and commercial boats, including handheld flares, aerial signals, and daytime smoke.
Key Takeaways
- Carry marine flares appropriate for boat size and operating range.
- Check flare expiration dates before each boating season.
- Use a mix of day and night visual distress signals.
- Select equipment from established marine safety manufacturers.
We stock durable, waterproof flare canisters containing essential pyrotechnics such as coastal red flares with extended burn time and signaling smoke floats designed for daytime visibility. These devices are intended to help alert rescuers both day and night, including offshore conditions where visibility and range matter.
Boaters operating anything from coastal power cruisers to oceangoing motor yachts can rely on guidance from our experienced representatives.
Marine Flares
The marine flares offered by Fisheries Supply are selected to meet or exceed United States Coast Guard standards applicable to visual distress signals. Both recreational and commercial operators should verify flare expiration dates at the start of each boating season and replace expired equipment promptly.
- Handheld marine flares: Simple to operate and highly visible for close-range signaling.
- Aerial flares: Designed for long-distance visibility and offshore signaling.
- Smoke signals: Intended for daytime distress situations with high-contrast visibility.
- Marine flare kits: Packaged kits that may include LED SOS distress lights, flags, and whistles.
Trusted Brands
Fisheries Supply carries established marine safety manufacturers such as ACR and Orion Safety Products. These brands are widely used by mariners and are engineered to operate reliably in demanding marine environments.
To learn more about emergency flares for boat, read our articles on marine flare requirements and safety and how to activate a hand-held flare.
Customers can also browse related signaling equipment such as boat air horns as part of a complete onboard safety setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the number of distress flares needed on a recreational boat?
Boats that are 6 meters or smaller require 3 flares, not including smoke signals. Boats ranging from 6 to 9 meters should carry 6 flares, not including smoke signals. Boats over 9 meters should carry at least 12 flares, not including smoke signals.
What color is an emergency flare?
Regardless of the type of flare used, the color of an emergency flare must be red.
How long do marine flares typically last before they expire?
Most pyrotechnic signals, including handheld and aerial flares, have a service life of approximately 42 months (3.5 years) from the date of manufacture. Because the chemicals inside degrade over time, the USCG requiresthat these devices be replaced before the expiration date stamped on the product. Operating a vessel with only expired flares is a violation of federal regulations and can result in significant fines.
Can I use an electronic LED distress light instead of traditional pyrotechnic flares?
Yes, USCG-approved electronic visual distress signals (eVDSDs) are an acceptable alternative for night signaling. They offer benefits such as infinite shelf life (as long as batteries are maintained) and longer run times.However, since most electronic flares are only certified for night use, you must also carry a compliant daytime signal, such as a 3-foot square orange distress flag, to meet full carriage requirements.
What is the proper way to activate a handheld marine flare?
To activate a standard handheld flare, first stand with your back to the wind to prevent sparks and smoke from blowing toward you. Hold the flare by the handle at a 45-degree angle away from your body and the boat. Twistor pull off the strike cap, and use the abrasive surface to ignite the flare away from your face. Always keep the burning end pointed downwind and never point a flare gun or launcher at another person or flammable materials.
How should I store my emergency signals to ensure they work when needed?
Flares and emergency signals should be stored in a cool, dry, and readily accessible location. It is highly recommended to keep them in a watertight, floating container to protect them from moisture and corrosion. You shouldinspect your signaling kit at the beginning of every season to verify that the firing pins on launchers are not bent and that all pyrotechnic devices are still within their valid service dates.
What should I do with expired flares?
Expired flares should never be thrown in the regular trash or jettisoned into the water, as they contain hazardous chemicals and explosives. Instead, check with your local fire department, law enforcement agency, or householdhazardous waste facility for disposal programs. Many boaters keep their recently expired flares as backups to their fresh kit, as they may still function in an emergency, though they cannot be counted toward the legalcarriage requirement.