The Future of Flares on Boats: Marine Emergency Signals in Transition

How distress signalling technology is evolving for safer, greener seas

The marine world is witnessing a transformative shift as technology revolutionises safety equipment, and the traditional role of flares on boats is not exempt from this evolution. Once deemed indispensable for emergency signalling, flares are now sharing the spotlight with advanced alternatives that promise greater efficiency, reliability, and environmental consciousness.

This article explores the future of marine emergency signals, examining innovations, regulations, and the changing priorities of the nautical community. Whether you're preparing for your first bareboat charter or working towards a professional qualification, understanding distress signalling equipment is fundamental to safe seamanship.

About the Author

Richard Beniston is an RYA Yachtmaster™ Examiner for Sail and Power, and one of only 16 RYA Yachtmaster™ Instructor Trainers worldwide. With 23 years' experience, Atlantic crossings and 3 RORC Fastnet campaigns as skipper, he provides student support from Hamble Point Marina for Sailing Course Online and Urban Truant.

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Understanding Marine Emergency Signals Today

Before exploring what's changing, it's worth understanding the current landscape of distress signals available to mariners. Visual distress signals fall into two main categories: pyrotechnic and non-pyrotechnic devices.

Pyrotechnic Signals

Traditional pyrotechnic marine emergency signals include:

• Red parachute rockets – Reach high altitude, creating a long-range visual alert useful offshore and at night
• Red handheld flares – Best when rescuers are closer and you need to pinpoint your position by day or night
• Orange smoke signals – Ideal in daylight, especially for aircraft, because the plume is easier to spot against the sea
• White flares – Used to warn of your presence rather than signal distress

Non-Pyrotechnic Signals

Non-pyrotechnic options include distress flags, dye markers, mirrors, and the Mayday call, familiar to anyone who's completed their VHF radio training. Many mariners now carry a combination of both types.

The Traditional Importance of Flares

For many years, flares have been a vital safety tool for mariners. Their bright, unmistakable light is capable of cutting through the darkness or heavy weather, making them an effective means of signalling for help during emergencies. Maritime authorities worldwide mandate their presence on recreational and commercial vessels, ensuring they remain a reliable tool in distress scenarios.

However, while flares are undeniably effective, they come with significant drawbacks: limited burn times, the risk of accidental ignition, shelf-life expiration, and the challenge of safe disposal due to their pyrotechnic nature. Many marinas and coastguard agencies no longer accept expired flares, leaving boat owners with a genuine disposal problem. These issues have spurred growing interest in modernising maritime distress signalling.

Technological Advances in Marine Emergency Signals

Electronic Visual Distress Signal Devices (eVDSDs)

One of the most promising developments in marine safety is the rise of electronic visual distress signal devices (eVDSDs). These battery-operated devices emit bright LED lights or safe laser beams that can be seen from significant distances, mimicking the visibility of traditional flares without their associated hazards.

Advantages of eVDSDs include:

• Reusable and long-lasting designs with multi-year battery life
• Elimination of fire hazards
• No expiration date requiring regular replacement
• Reduced environmental impact due to the absence of chemicals or pyrotechnics
• Lower long-term cost despite higher initial purchase price

Many eVDSDs are also equipped with additional features, such as automatic activation in water, GPS integration, and compatibility with global distress frequencies, ensuring a robust response in emergencies.

Integration of Communication Technology

The modern mariner has access to an array of communication tools that complement or even surpass the traditional flare's utility. Devices such as Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) and Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) can transmit distress signals directly to search and rescue authorities via the COSPAS-SARSAT satellite system.

EPIRBs transmit a 406 MHz distress signal detected by satellite and usually include GPS for accurate position. Some models also broadcast a 121.5 MHz homing tone, and newer variants add AIS messages to aid final localisation by nearby vessels. When combined with eVDSDs or other visual signals, these technologies provide a comprehensive safety net.

Digital Selective Calling (DSC) via VHF radio offers another layer of protection. A DSC Mayday alert, sent at the press of a button, transmits your vessel's identity and GPS position to all DSC-equipped vessels and coast stations within range. Understanding how to use DSC effectively is covered in the RYA VHF/SRC Radio course.

Eco-Friendly Alternatives

Environmental sustainability has become a major focus in the development of new marine safety equipment. Traditional flares, which contain chemicals that can pollute marine environments if improperly disposed of, are being replaced by devices made from recyclable materials and low-impact components. Manufacturers are increasingly committed to creating products that align with global efforts to safeguard ocean ecosystems.

The shift away from pyrotechnics also eliminates the risk of contributing to marine fires, which can occur when expired flares are improperly disposed of at sea.

Regulatory Changes and Challenges

Adoption of Modern Standards

As innovative technologies grow in popularity, maritime regulatory bodies are adapting their standards to accommodate these new tools. The U.S. Coast Guard now recognises certain eVDSDs as acceptable alternatives to pyrotechnic flares for recreational vessels. Similar changes are being considered or implemented by authorities in Europe and other regions.

In the UK, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) continues to require pyrotechnic signals as part of a commercial vessel's safety equipment, though this guidance is kept under review as electronic alternatives mature. The RYA Day Skipper and Yachtmaster syllabi cover both traditional and modern distress signalling equipment, ensuring students understand the full range of options available.

Cost and Accessibility

Despite their advantages, electronic devices often come with higher upfront costs compared to traditional flares. This can pose a barrier to adoption for some boat owners, particularly in developing regions. However, as technology advances and economies of scale reduce production costs, these devices are expected to become more accessible to a wider audience.

When calculating the true cost, consider that a set of pyrotechnic flares needs replacing every three years, while a quality eVDSD may last a decade or more with proper battery maintenance.

Balancing Tradition and Innovation

Many mariners remain attached to traditional flares due to their simplicity and proven reliability. A handheld flare requires no batteries, no programming, and works in conditions that might disable electronic equipment. Regulatory bodies must strike a balance between promoting innovative solutions and retaining time-tested tools, ensuring that safety remains the top priority.

The Future of Marine Safety

The transition from traditional flares to modern alternatives represents a broader evolution in marine safety. Beyond signalling devices, advancements in navigation, communication, and life-saving equipment are reshaping how mariners prepare for and respond to emergencies.

Key trends include:

• Integration of artificial intelligence into search and rescue operations
• The rise of autonomous vessels equipped with advanced safety systems
• Satellite-based tracking becoming standard on smaller recreational vessels
• Increased collaboration between governments, manufacturers, and environmental organisations to develop sustainable marine technologies

Understanding these developments is increasingly important for anyone working towards professional maritime qualifications.

Conclusion

The future of flares on boats is defined by a gradual shift toward safer, more efficient, and environmentally conscious alternatives. While traditional flares will likely retain their place as a backup tool in the near term, the growing adoption of electronic visual distress signals, EPIRBs, and integrated communication systems signals a new era for maritime safety.

As the industry embraces innovation, mariners can look forward to a future where emergency preparedness is not only more effective but also more sustainable. Whatever equipment you choose to carry, the most important thing is understanding how and when to use it. That knowledge comes from proper training.