Laser Flares

[Warren Milberg]

In the process of having my first sail of the season a few days ago (and it was grand!), I did a systems and gear check first. All was well, but I noted that my flares are about to expire soon. In thinking about replacing them (and I have lots of expired flares aboard...), I started looking into Laser Flares.

Does anyone know if they meet the basic USCG requirement? Anyone have them and if so what are your thoughts about their usefulness.... or not? Is it more cost-effective to replace batteries in these flares rather than buy another 3-pack of relatively inexpensive 12 ga. flares? As these items seem a bit pricey, what would be the best place to purchase them?

 

[sailingdog]

IIRC, they meet the requirements of ONE visual signaling device... but I don't believe any are USCG approved as of yet. See this PDF

 

[Tim R.]

From what I have read they are not as intuitive to use and appear to be somewhat directional. IOW, you have to point them at the person that you want to see you. A traditional flare once lit can be seen from any direction.

No idea about USCG acceptance.

 

[Todd Smith]

A good review and testing of one brand can be seen here. http://www.equipped.org/rescuelaser.htm

I think they would be a great addition to the normal pryo flares and especially if they were attached to your PFD in case of a overboard event.

West Marine carries the basic model.

Todd

 

[ronbo]

I have two red laser flares (20 miles) using AA batteries. Green lasers (30m) have more range but costs more. It's a good addition to your regular complement of flares for signaling, particularly nighttime. The vertical signaling line increases to thousands of feet as distance to the target increases. Moving this fan of light horizontally is easier to spot by rescuers.
Ronbo