Flares
Flares must be carried in boats operating in both semi-protected and unprotected waters.
- Semi protected waters – Coastal waters up to 2 nautical miles from the coast or the banks of Lake Alexandrina and Albert (includes tidal waterways such as Port Adelaide River and the Coorong)
- Unprotected waters – Coastal waters more than 2 nautical miles from the shore and from the banks of Lakes Alexandrina and Albert.
Use the safety equipment checker tool to see what flares you need for the type of vessel you are operating in and where you are operating.
They are used as a distress signal to indicate that help is needed and show your boat's location to a search vessel.
Flares should always be stored in a waterproof container and must be replaced before the expiry date printed on the packaging.
Remember that flares contain a small charge and can cause injury if misused so take care when handling and using them. They should be stored away from the reach of small children.
Expired flares need to be handed in to a suitably equipped police station for disposal.
This type of flare is visible up to four kilometres away and is for daytime use only. You must carry two orange smoke flares (flares must not be expired) when operating in semi-protected and unprotected waters.
