AVIARA OWNERS MANUAL / 32
Pyrotechnic visual distress signals must be Coast Guard-
approved, in serviceable condition and readily accessible. This
means that:
• They are marked with an expiration date. Expired signals
may be carried as extra equipment, but cannot be counted
toward meeting the visual distress signal requirement, since
they may be unreliable.
• If pyrotechnic devices are selected, a minimum of three are
required. That is, three signals for day use and three signals
for night. Some pyrotechnic signals meet both day and night
use requirements.
• Pyrotechnic devices should be stored in a cool, dry location,
if possible. A watertight container painted red or orange
and prominently marked “Distress Signals” or “Flares” is
recommended.
USCG-approved pyrotechnic visual distress signals and
associated devices include pyrotechnic red flares, hand-held
or aerial; pyrotechnic orange smoke, hand-held or floating, or
launchers for aerial red meteors or parachute flares.
Non-pyrotechnic devices may be allowed. These include an
orange distress flag (day signal only) or an electric distress light
(which is acceptable for night use). Use of these devices must
still meet Coast Guard requirements, information for which is
available online and from the Coast Guard.
Under Inland Navigation Rules, a high intensity white light
flashing at regular intervals from 50-70 times per minute is
considered a distress signal. Such devices do NOT count
toward meeting the visual distress signal requirement,
however. Regulations prohibit display of visual distress signals
on the water under any circumstances except when assistance
is required to prevent immediate or potential danger to
persons on board a vessel.
All distress signals have distinct advantages. No single device
is ideal under all conditions or suitable for all purposes.
Pyrotechnics are universally recognized as excellent distress
signals. However, there is potential for injury and property
damage if not properly handled. Particular care should be used
in stowage of pyrotechnics if children will be on board. These
devices produce a very hot flame and the residue can cause
burns and ignite flammable materials.
Check with local authorities regarding the best visual distress signal
for use in the area in which you will be boating.
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