“Elios” Handheld Red Distress Flare – SOLAS Signal, 60 sec

The “Elios” handheld flare is a crucial tool for attracting rescuers’ attention in the event of a disaster in open waters. Developed by FDF Nautica – a reputable maker of marine pyrotechnics – this flare is the result of modern technology ensuring maximum reliability. When activated, it generates a bright red light with an intensity of about 15,000 candela, comparable to the brightness of a lighthouse concentrated in your hand. The flame burns steadily for about 1 minute, during which time nearby ships or aircraft have the opportunity to spot your signal. One notable aspect of “Elios” is that it’s available in different colors (red – distress, white – anti-collision signal, green and yellow – for training purposes), but it is the red that is the standard for SOS situations and is MED/SOLAS approved. The flare’s body is designed to be intuitive – the lower part (handle) is ribbed for a firm grip, the upper part clearly indicates where the flame emits (always point away from the body and overhead). Before use, the flare can sit for years in your emergency kit – hence it’s built to be storage-durable, with a typical shelf life of 3–5 years from manufacture. The internal mechanism (a pull-wire type) is protected against accidental firing, but in an emergency even an untrained person can figure out how to use it: pull the cord sharply and the flare ignites. The flame does not drip or emit excessive sparks – it burns cleanly and upwards, away from your hand. Once expended, only the casing remains, which is non-combustible. It’s important to have multiple flares on board – SOLAS requires at least 6 hand flares in a liferaft or lifeboat – and “Elios” is an excellent choice for that purpose due to its compactness and reliability. In a critical situation when every second counts, you can rely on “Elios” to light on the first try and illuminate the night sky with an urgent red glow that says everything for you: “We need help, we are here!”.

• Typical scenarios: Use this flare only in a real emergency or when you spot an approaching rescue ship/plane – its purpose is to direct rescuers precisely to your location. For example, if your boat is sinking or has sunk and you’re in a liferaft, ignite the flare when you see lights or hear an engine of a nearby ship. Also, in a “man overboard” situation at night, the red flare can help light up the area and draw attention from other crews. Do not use it for anything other than distress – a red signal is an internationally recognized cry for help.
• Which vessels should carry it: All of them – from small sailboats and motorboats to large ships. For recreational vessels venturing beyond protected waters (lakes, rivers) – i.e., into the sea – having at least a few hand flares is highly recommended if not legally required. Commercial ships and passenger vessels under SOLAS must carry these in their life-saving appliances. Even for coastal fishermen or ocean-going sea kayakers, a flare like this in a lifejacket pocket can be life-saving.
• Precautions: Always hold the flare pointed upward at roughly a 45° angle and away from your face and body when igniting and while it burns. Be mindful of hot dripping material – although “Elios” is designed not to drip, any pyrotechnic gets very hot. If you’re on an inflatable raft, stand near the edge while holding the flare to avoid any hot residue contacting the fabric (to prevent damage). Never light two flares at once unless absolutely necessary – use them one after the other to prolong your signaling time. After burning, the spent flare will be hot – allow it to cool or toss it into the water once cool enough. Keep unused flares in a dry place, away from children. Train your crew and family beforehand on how to use flares – in a panic, that knowledge saves lives.