question about flares, automotive VS marine

[indy440]

Can you use normal day and night automotive type red flares for boating? My marine flares are expired and I replaced them with some automotive type but im not sure Im meeting USGC regulations and don't want a ticket. They have a 3 year expiration just like the old ones.

I'm in NY and only boat in freshwater lakes if it makes a difference.

 

[indy440]

Re: question about flares, automotive VS marine

I think I just found my answer with a google search for USCG regulations. They need to have a USCG approval number or they dont meet the requirement. Looks like I need to go to the boat store...

 

[Splat]

Re: question about flares, automotive VS marine

If I remember correctly there IS a difference. I believe an auotmotive flare will burn down to nothing, where as a marine flare is meant to be held in your hand so only the top 1/3 or so is flammable.

I thought I read sometthing about the marine ones also don't drip molten wax and such, but I could be wrong.

Bill

 

[indy440]

Re: question about flares, automotive VS marine

I wasn't as worried about actually using them, i'm more worried about passing an inspection if I ever get stopped.

 

[reelfishin]

Re: question about flares, automotive VS marine

Automotive flares are not OK in a boat because of the way they burn and throw sparks and drip burning debris. Its a fire risk to light one no matter how careful you are.

I do wish they would come out with a flare that lasts longer than 3 years, I have a box of old flares from over the years and have never once lit one. It just seems like a big waste of money to keep buying something that I will never use. Myself, I rarely am in water where a flare would be called for, in most cases the worst emergency would mean walking to shore in waste deep water.