LED light to replace flares/visual distress signals

[Pau Hana]

Just picked this up to replace my flare kits (which I found were out of date by almost 2 years!). While it doesn't meet EU standards or beyond 3 miles offshore per the current regs, it's more than adequate for my use.

https://siriussignal.com/shop/sos-c-1001/

At $100, it'll quickly pay for itself, as I've always carried 6 to 8 flares (handheld) plus an aerial kit onboard.

One more thing checked off the USCG list....

 

[GFC]

Peter, I've seen that advertised but didn't know it wasn't legal if you're more than 3 miles off shore. It would also fit our needs.

 

[KneeDeep]

Just saw this recently as well - (recent write up from active captain and defender) and looking into it before next batch of flares expires. Assume you would need to annually change the batteries, but still would be cheaper than flare replacement. I also like the idea that the kids could use easier than the flares too.

 

[HopCar]

ACR used to make a USCGA signal light. It didn't sell well. I think the problem was that it required batteries with an expiration date on them to be approved. At that time it was hard to find dated batteries.

 

[porman]

So does one of these meet the requirements or do you have to have more?

 

[Pau Hana]

Just one satisfies requirements.

 

[tbodine88]

Say you go out, an unexpected storm blows up, you lose power, the engine compartment floods and batteries are shorted (no Radio), drifting towards a reef. Will you be wanting an LED based signal lantern or a burning magnesium fueled Flare?

Magnesium Flare 12,566,370 lumens
Odeo LED Flare 1,256.63 lumens

Plus even an out of date flare will burn brightly, maybe, if it doesn't do something else

But an LED flare with dead batteries you can use only to brain the sharks when they come your way.

The way I see it, your money or your life, your choice.

good luck

 

[Pau Hana]

Say you go out, an unexpected storm blows up, you lose power, the engine compartment floods and batteries are shorted (no Radio), drifting towards a reef. Will you be wanting an LED based signal lantern or a burning magnesium fueled Flare?

good luck

Brother, I'm in the business of the "what if"- we could beat this horse for days, and create unimaginable scenarios..... Whatever signaling device you choose, as long as it's in spec for your navigation (SOLAS or non-SOLAS) you'll be fine. I prefer to carry the LED unit and not worry about a flare that may be water saturated.

BTW- in your scenario, I'd haul the LED light up a yardarm and let it flash its SOS message away. The LED should last several hours (at least) vice 45 seconds- 2 min for a magnesium flare.....