Headed to your local chandlery to stock up on essential safety gear, only to find the shelves suspiciously bare of flares? You're not alone. Buying emergency flares in the UK has become a bit of a minefield, and you're probably scratching your head wondering what's going on.
Well, grab a cuppa, because we're about to dive into the somewhat murky waters of UK flare legislation. It's a bit of a story, and it explains why you can't just pop down to your usual shop and grab a handful of these vital safety devices.
So, What's the Deal?
Essentially, the regulations surrounding the sale and possession of flares in the UK have tightened significantly in recent years. This boils down to a few key reasons:
- Security Concerns: Unfortunately, flares have been misused over the years, leading to concerns about their potential use in illegal activities or as a threat to public safety.
- Storage and Disposal Issues: Flares contain hazardous materials, and improper storage and disposal can pose a significant environmental risk.
- EU Exit Considerations: Brexit has further complicated the picture, with changes to regulations impacting the importation and distribution of flares.
The End Result?
These factors have led to stricter licensing requirements and tighter controls on who can sell flares. Many chandleries, particularly smaller independent ones, simply haven't been able to justify the cost and hassle of obtaining the necessary licenses. This means fewer places are authorized to sell them.
Okay, So Where Can I Get Flares?
While it might be trickier than it used to be, purchasing flares in the UK is still possible. You'll typically need to look towards larger chandleries or specialist safety equipment suppliers or be prepared to pay the delivery fee direct to you. This means you will have to pay a little more, but it's by far the easiest way to find flares these days.
Here at Marine Supplies Direct we do offer flare delivery direct from supplier. To order you can visit the flare listings on our website or give us a call.
But Wait, There's More! Alternatives to Consider
The increasing difficulty in sourcing flares has understandably led many boaters to explore alternative safety and signalling options. Some popular alternatives include:
- Electronic Visual Distress Signals (EVDS): These devices emit a powerful, internationally recognized distress signal.
- Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs): These transmit your GPS location to emergency services.
- Satellite Communication Devices: Enabling two-way communication with rescue services.
While these alternatives offer different advantages and disadvantages compared to traditional flares, they provide a modern and potentially more reliable way to signal for help.
The Bottom Line:
The situation with flare sales in the UK is undoubtedly frustrating. It highlights the importance of staying informed about current regulations and exploring alternative safety solutions. While flares are undoubtedly a valuable safety tool, it's crucial to consider the evolving landscape and ensure you have a reliable means of signalling for help when you're out on the water.
So, before your next voyage, do your research, plan ahead, and make sure you have a comprehensive safety plan in place – flares or no flares! And remember to always dispose of expired flares responsibly. Safe sailing!