Tricked out kayaks Hitting the water - Wavelength Paddling Magazine

Flares
to help them pinpoint your location. As
the rescuers approach, launch the last two
flares.
Aerial flares should be fired at an angle
into the wind. This encourages the flare
to gain altitude so it can be seen over the
greatest distances. Calculate a firing angle
of 1 degree for each knot of wind. For
example, if the wind is blowing 20 knots,
you should fire the flare against the wind
with an angle of 20 degrees. If there is no
wind at all, you should fire the flare directly
over your head. With high wind velocity
such as storm force winds, lower the angle
to a maximum of 45 degrees.
Flare manufacturers use a variety of
firing systems. Review the instructions
carefully before you need to use them. You
need to be familiar with the operation of all
flares in your possession, and ideally have
attended a flare demonstration.
Aerial flares are designed to extinguish
in water. If a flare misfires, handle it with
caution. The ignition might be delayed. Wait
at least 30 seconds, and if it still hasn’t fired,
place it in water until you can dispose of it
properly.
Are flares obsolete?
Considering electronic options such as
GPS locator beacons and the question
of whether flares will be seen, are they a
worthwhile piece of safety equipment
now? Join the discussion at
www. wavelengthmagazine.com/forum
Here are some safety tips for using flares:
• Launch an aerial flare at arm’s length
away from your face.
• Look away from the flare when you
launch it.
• Treat a flare as if it is a firearm: don’t
point it towards anyone.
Paddlers must also sort out how to store
and carry flares on the water. Flares need
to be kept dry but they must also be kept
at hand in the event of an emergency. I
recommend using a waterproof container
such as a welding rod container or in a
heavy duty vacuum sealed plastic bag. To
facilitate opening the bag, seal a large nail in
the bag with the flares.
Flares are valid for four years from the
date of manufacture which is stamped
on each flare. It is hard to find a place to
dispose of outdated flares but try calling
your local fire department or police station.
Flares cannot be recycled and throwing
flares in with household trash poses a
danger.
Remember that it is illegal to fire flares
if you are not in distress. Only in rare
instances, possibly at a training session
organized by a training organization,
would you be able to discharge a flare in a
non-emergency situation and not break the
law.
One significant drawback to flares is
that they communicate one way – you don’t
know if anyone has seen them. Paddlers
should also carry a two way communication
device such as a radio or cell phone.
Nevertheless, flares are a recognized and
effective emergency signalling device. Used
properly, they form an important part of
most paddlers’ emergency communications
plan.
•
Michael Pardy lives in Victoria where he runs
SKILS Ltd. He can be reached at info@skils.ca.
WINTER 2010 WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE 41