The UK Coast Guard warns that marine flares should only ever be used in distress situations and not for entertainment. On that matter it provides information on hwo to dispose them safely.
If the UK Coast Guard receives an alert at or near the coast where a flare has been launched, it will always respond and won’t know the difference if they are being used as fireworks. This would put rescue teams at unnecessary risk and potentially diverted from a legitimate emergency.
Do not use flares as fireworks as they can easily be mistaken as an emergency situation at or near the coast
What is the difference between a flare and fireworks?
- Flares are typically red or orange and don’t last long – they are an internationally recognised distress signal;
- Fireworks are typically colourful and often accompanied by a sound, leaving long smoke trails;
Disposing of unwanted flares
Only contact HM Coastguard when all other means of disposal have been exhausted. HM Coastaguard’s can only accept a small number of flares from individuals. Before contacting HM Coastguard try:
- The place you brought them. They may offer a ‘take back’ scheme Marinas (a small charge may apply);
- Life raft service stations (some offer a service);
- The council. They may be accepted at local recycling centres;
- If you are still unable to dispose of flares you can then contact your nearest coastguard licensed site, all of which are listed below.
