Webmaster note: This page is copied directly from https://www.boatingbc.ca/cpages/returning-expired-flares, it is highly recommended that you consult that page for up-to-date information when you are preparing to dispose of flares.
Pyrotechnic flares are used to signal distress at sea and help pinpoint a boat’s location. You need to check flares regularly to make sure they are in good condition and dispose of out-of-date or damaged flares safely. Find out how to arrange safe disposal of your flares.
The rules for safe disposal of flares
Out-of-date or damaged flares can be extremely dangerous. Flares can kill so it’s important to bring them ashore as soon as possible to be disposed of safely.
- It’s against the law to use flares in a non-emergency situation or dump them at sea.
- Never: put flares in carrier bags or drop them in general household rubbish or public litter bins
- dump them anywhere where members of the public could come across them
The following Vancouver Island locations accept expired flares:
- Name: Pacific Coast Liferaft
Type: Retailer
Contact: Dan
Email: info@liferaft.ca
Phone: (250) 360-1573
Address: 2-956 Devonshire Road Victoria B.C. V9A 4T8
Notes: Accepts all brands of flares. - Name: The Harbour Chandler
Phone: 250-753-2425
Address: 52 Esplanade, Nanaimo BC V9R 4Y7
Notes: Only accepts CIL/Orion flares. - Name: All Bay Marine
Phone: 250-656-0153
Address: 2204 Harbour Road, Sidney BC V8L 2P6
Notes: Only accepts CIL/Orion flares.