BOATsmart! Canada
Knowledge Base

Module 02 - Boating Rules, Regulations, and Equipment

Flares

Flares and pyrotechnic devices are used to signal distress or a boaters need for assistance. They should always be stored in a watertight container and located in a cool, dry, accessible area.

You may be required to carry certain types of flares depending on the size and type of your boat, and the waterway where you’re operating.

FOR EXAMPLE:

  • You are required to carry flares if you’re operating on any ocean, or a waterway where it is possible to be further than 1 nautical mile (1.85km) from shore.
  • You are not required to carry flares if you are operating on a river, canal, or lake on which at no time it is possible for your boat can be more than 1 nautical mile from shore.

Remember, you are required to maintain a lookout at all times for signals that indicate a fellow boater is in distress or in need of assistance.

Types of Approved Flares - There are four types of flares approved to signal your need for help:

 

Type A ‘Parachute Flares’:

Easily seen from water, land, and air, and must emit a red light. This flare type emits a single ‘star’ of light, which can reach a height of 300 m, and burns in the air for 30 - 40 seconds.

Type B ‘Multi-star Flares':

Easily seen from water, land, and air, and must emit a red light. This flare type emits 2 or more ‘stars’ of light, which can reach a height of 100 m, and burn for up to 5 seconds.

 

Type C ‘Hand-held Flares’: 

 Not as easily seen from afar, but are effective for pinpointing your position, and must emit a red light.

Type D ‘Smoke Flares’:

Highly visible during daylight hours, and must give off orange smoke.

 

Get your Official Canadian
Boating License

The Official Transport Canada Boating Course, Test & License.

Get your Official Canadian
Boating License

The Official Transport Canada Boating
Course, Test & License.

Campfire Collective truck icon.

LET'S WORK TOGETHER

 

Go boldly, tell your story. Campfire is building a collective of ambassadors who share a passion for the wild. If you’re an influencer, publisher or sport expert drop us a line. Let’s hook up and inspire others.

Campfire Collective high five icon.

CAMPFIRE STORIES

 

Stay in the loop. Sign up for our newsletter
to get the latest stories from around the fire.

Campfire_Collective_Black_Logo-1-1
Campfire_Collective_Small_Logo