Description

A rocket parachute flare is a long-range maritime distress signal designed to alert rescuers and pinpoint a vessel’s location during emergencies, both day and night. It consists of a waterproof casing containing a rocket motor and a pyrotechnic flare attached to a small parachute

Technical Specifications (SOLAS/LSA Code)
To be certified for maritime use under the International Life-Saving Appliance (LSA) Code, a rocket parachute flare must meet these minimum performance standards:
Altitude: Must reach a vertical height of at least 300 meters (approx. 1,000 feet).
Burn Time: Must burn for a minimum of 40 seconds.
Luminous Intensity: Must emit a bright red light of at least 30,000 candela.
Descent Rate: Must descend at no more than 5 meters per second to maximize air time.
Visibility: Can be seen up to 30–40 nautical miles at night and roughly 10 miles during the day in clear conditions.
Comet – Marine
Comet – Marine
+7
Physical Characteristics
Casing: Typically a water-resistant plastic or aluminum cylinder with a non-slip grip.
Dimensions: Roughly 260mm to 300mm in length and 32mm to 48mm in diameter.
Instructions: Brief operating diagrams must be printed directly on the casing for quick reference during stress.
Coast Guard (.mil)
Coast Guard (.mil)
+4
Operational Safety
Activation: Most use a pull-wire or trigger mechanism located at the base.
Recoil: Users should expect a “loud report” and significant downward recoil upon firing.
Aerial Warning: Never fire when a helicopter or aircraft is directly overhead, as the rocket can pose a severe hazard to flight.
Storage: Should be kept in a dry, accessible location, often in a dedicated waterproof polybottle