Parachute Flare

A parachute flare, also known as a parachute rocket flare or red parachute flare, falls under the category of life saving appliance and is a visual aid that draws attention to a boat or ship in distress. Parachute flares are long range aids that project an extremely bright signal that floats back down to earth from a small parachute.

These flares are brighter than handheld flares and can reach a height of around 300 meters / 1000 feet and they burn for approximately 40 seconds. On a clear day or night, parachute flares can be seen at a distance of approximately 28 miles or 45 kilometers.