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{{short description|Pyrotechnic light source}}
{{Short description|Pyrotechnic light source}}
{{hatnote group|
{{Hatnote group|
{{other uses}}
{{Other uses}}
{{redirect|Signal flare|the character|Signal Flare (Transformers)}}
{{Redirect|Signal flare|the character|Signal Flare (Transformers)}}
}}
}}
{{More citations needed|date=November 2014}}
{{More citations needed|date=November 2014}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2017}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2024}}
[[File:US Army 52253 Best Warrior At Night.jpg|thumb|upright=1.35|Illumination flares being used during military training exercises]]
[[File:US Army 52253 Best Warrior At Night.jpg|thumb|upright=1.35|Illumination flares being used during military training exercises]]
[[File:Flares being fired from illuminated ships during International Fleet Review 2016.jpg|thumb|upright=1.35|Flares being fired from a ship during a fleet review]]
[[File:Flares being fired from illuminated ships during International Fleet Review 2016.jpg|thumb|upright=1.35|Flares being fired from a ship during a fleet review]]


A '''flare''', also sometimes called a '''fusée''', '''fusee''', or '''bengala''',<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.laleggepertutti.it/163642_fumogeni-e-bengala-allo-stadio-quando-e-reato | title=Fumogeni e bengala allo stadio: Quando è reato? | date=27 March 2018 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.eldebate.com/deportes/futbol/20230224/nino-herido-pirotecnia-ultras-sporting-portugal_96333.html | title=Un niño herido por la pirotecnia de los ultras del Sporting de Portugal | date=24 February 2023 }}</ref> '''bengalo'''<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.abendzeitung-muenchen.de/muenchen/stadtviertel/freimann-england-fan-zuendet-bengalo-in-seinem-hotelzimmer-art-820280 | title=Freimann: England-Fan zündet Bengalo in seinem Hotelzimmer | date=7 June 2022 }}</ref> in several European countries, is a type of [[pyrotechnic]] that produces a bright light or intense heat without an [[explosion]]. Flares are used for distress signaling, illumination, or defensive [[countermeasures]] in civilian and military applications. Flares may be ground pyrotechnics, projectile pyrotechnics, or parachute-suspended to provide maximum illumination time over a large area. Projectile pyrotechnics may be dropped from aircraft, fired from rocket or [[artillery]], or deployed by [[flare gun]]s or handheld percussive tubes.
A '''flare''', also sometimes called a '''fusée''', '''fusee''', or '''bengala''',<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.laleggepertutti.it/163642_fumogeni-e-bengala-allo-stadio-quando-e-reato |title=Fumogeni e bengala allo stadio: Quando è reato? |date=27 March 2018 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.eldebate.com/deportes/futbol/20230224/nino-herido-pirotecnia-ultras-sporting-portugal_96333.html |title=Un niño herido por la pirotecnia de los ultras del Sporting de Portugal |date=24 February 2023 }}</ref> '''bengalo'''<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.abendzeitung-muenchen.de/muenchen/stadtviertel/freimann-england-fan-zuendet-bengalo-in-seinem-hotelzimmer-art-820280 |title=Freimann: England-Fan zündet Bengalo in seinem Hotelzimmer |date=7 June 2022 }}</ref> in several European countries, is a type of [[pyrotechnic]] that produces a bright light or intense heat without an [[explosion]]. Flares are used for distress signaling, illumination, or defensive [[countermeasures]] in civilian and military applications. Flares may be ground pyrotechnics, projectile pyrotechnics, or parachute-suspended to provide maximum illumination time over a large area. Projectile pyrotechnics may be dropped from aircraft, fired from rocket or [[artillery]], or deployed by [[flare gun]]s or handheld percussive tubes.


==Origin==
==Origin==
{{see also|History of gunpowder|Fireworks}}
{{See also|History of gunpowder|Fireworks}}


The earliest recorded use of gunpowder for signaling purposes was the 'signal bomb' used by the Chinese [[Song dynasty|Song Dynasty]] (960–1279) as the Mongol-led [[Yuan dynasty|Yuan Dynasty]] (1271–1368) besieged [[Yangzhou]] in 1276.<ref name="Needham">{{cite book |author=Needham |first=Joseph |title=Science and Civilisation in China: The Gunpowder Epic |publisher=Cambridge University Press |year=1986 |isbn=978-0-521-30358-3 |page=169}}</ref> These soft-shelled bombs, timed to explode in midair, were used to send messages to a detachment of troops far in the distance. Another mention of the signal bomb appears in a text dating from 1293 requesting their collection from those still stored in [[Zhejiang]].<ref name="Needham" /> A signal gun appears in Korea by 1600. The ''Wu I Thu Phu Thung Chih'' or ''Illustrated Military Encyclopedia'', written in 1791, depicts a signal gun in an illustration.<ref>{{cite book |author=Needham |first=Joseph |title=Science and Civilisation in China: The Gunpowder Epic |publisher=Cambridge University Press |year=1986 |isbn=978-0-521-30358-3 |page=331}}</ref>
The earliest recorded use of gunpowder for signaling purposes was the 'signal bomb' used by the Chinese [[Song dynasty|Song Dynasty]] (960–1279) as the Mongol-led [[Yuan dynasty|Yuan Dynasty]] (1271–1368) besieged [[Yangzhou]] in 1276.<ref name="Needham">{{cite book |last=Needham |first=Joseph |title=Science and Civilisation in China: The Gunpowder Epic |publisher=Cambridge University Press |date=1986 |isbn=978-0-521-30358-3 |page=169 }}</ref> These soft-shelled bombs, timed to explode in midair, were used to send messages to a detachment of troops far in the distance. Another mention of the signal bomb appears in a text dating from 1293 requesting their collection from those still stored in [[Zhejiang]].<ref name="Needham" /> A signal gun appears in Korea by 1600. The ''Wu I Thu Phu Thung Chih'' or ''Illustrated Military Encyclopedia'', written in 1791, depicts a signal gun in an illustration.<ref>{{cite book |last=Needham |first=Joseph |title=Science and Civilisation in China: The Gunpowder Epic |publisher=Cambridge University Press |date=1986 |isbn=978-0-521-30358-3 |page=331 }}</ref>


==Civilian use==
==Civilian use==
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===Maritime distress signal===
===Maritime distress signal===
'''''Distress rockets''''' (aka "rocket-propelled parachute flares"<ref name="US1979">{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=twUXuqa-fNMC&dq=distress+rocket+red+color&pg=PA97|title=Subpart: 160.036 Hand–Held Rocket–Propelled Parachute Red Flare Distress Signals|work=Code of Federal Regulations, Title 46, Shipping, Pt. 156-165, Revised as of October 1, 2009|publisher=United States Government Publishing Office|page=97|year=2010|isbn=9780160840425 }}</ref>) have been mentioned in the modern era for civilian maritime emergencies since at least 1856. The ''[[U.S. Nautical Magazine]]'' of that year mentions the use of "rocket stations" for ship related emergencies.<ref>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=KpwAAAAAMAAJ&dq=distress+rocket+red+color&pg=PA128|title=Night Signals at Sea|work=Monthly Nautical Magazine, and Quarterly Review (1856)|author=Robert Postans|publisher=Griffiths & Bates|volume=5|pages=125–132|year=1856}}</ref> White rockets were solely used until 1873, when commander [[John Yorke, 7th Earl of Hardwicke|John Yorke]] of the [[Royal Navy]] suggested that rockets for distress should have a distinctive color. The request was made to help ease confusion between ships in distress and rockets used by [[Pilot boat|pilot ship]]s.<ref>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=htpQGmDVHsEC&dq=distress+rocket+ship&pg=PA96|title=To the Editor of the Times|publisher=Waterlow & Sons|work=The Loss of the North Fleet|page=96|year=1873}}</ref> By 1875, the [[Board of Trade]] (UK) had issued regulations for Captains in regards to night signals. Rockets containing at least 16oz of [[Chemical composition|composition]] were only to be used as a sign for a ship in distress. Passenger ships at the time were required to carry 12 of these rockets.<ref name="1875NM">{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=iDnJBAAAQBAJ&dq=Distress+rocket&pg=PA956|title=Rockets for Distress Signals|work=The Nautical Magazine for 1875|publisher=Cambridge University Press|pages=956–957|year=1875|isbn=9781108056540 }}</ref> The [[Merchant Shipping Act]] of 1894 further stated that these rockets were to be fired one at a time in short intervals of approximately one minute apart.<ref name="TitanicRockets">{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Cc4AWyOMESwC&dq=distress+rocket&pg=PA44|title=Historical Sketches of the Events|work=Iconic Events: Media, Politics, and Power in Retelling History|author=Patricia Leavy|publisher=Lexington Books|pages=44–45|year=2007|isbn=9780739115206 }}</ref> Distress rockets continued to be used in different colors as was the case with [[RMS Titanic]]. At the time shipping companies had "a particular kind of distress rocket (that differed by color)". Each ship was also given a guide of colors to use depending on what signal was to be sent.<ref name="TitanicRockets"/><ref>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=iKouAAAAYAAJ&dq=Distress+rocket&pg=PA49|title=General Remarks|work=British Islands Pilot: The west coast of England and Wales|author=[[United States Hydrographic Office]]|publisher=[[United States Government Publishing Office]]|page=47|year=1917}}</ref>
'''''Distress rockets''''' (aka "rocket-propelled parachute flares"<ref name="US1979">{{Code of Federal Regulations |46 |156–165 |title=Subpart: 160.036 Hand–Held Rocket–Propelled Parachute Red Flare Distress Signals |date=2010 }}</ref>) have been mentioned in the modern era for civilian maritime emergencies since at least 1856. The ''[[U.S. Nautical Magazine]]'' of that year mentions the use of "rocket stations" for ship related emergencies.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=KpwAAAAAMAAJ&dq=distress+rocket+red+color&pg=PA128 |title=Night Signals at Sea |work=Monthly Nautical Magazine, and Quarterly Review (1856) |first=Robert |last=Postans |publisher=Griffiths & Bates |volume=5 |pages=125–132 |date=1856 }}</ref> White rockets were solely used until 1873, when commander [[John Yorke, 7th Earl of Hardwicke|John Yorke]] of the [[Royal Navy]] suggested that rockets for distress should have a distinctive color. The request was made to help ease confusion between ships in distress and rockets used by [[Pilot boat|pilot ship]]s.<ref>{{cite book|chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=htpQGmDVHsEC&dq=distress+rocket+ship&pg=PA96 |chapter=To the Editor of the 'Times.' |title=The Loss of the "Northfleet" |publisher=Waterlow & Sons |page=96 |date=1873 }}</ref> By 1875, the [[Board of Trade]] (UK) had issued regulations for Captains in regards to night signals. Rockets containing at least 16oz of [[Chemical composition|composition]] were only to be used as a sign for a ship in distress. Passenger ships at the time were required to carry 12 of these rockets.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=iDnJBAAAQBAJ&dq=Distress+rocket&pg=PA956 |title=Rockets for Distress Signals |work=The Nautical Magazine |publisher=Cambridge University Press |pages=956–957 |date=1875 |isbn=9781108056540 }}</ref> The [[Merchant Shipping Act]] of 1894 further stated that these rockets were to be fired one at a time in short intervals of approximately one minute apart.<ref name="TitanicRockets">{{cite book |last=Leavy |first=Patricia |date=2007 |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Cc4AWyOMESwC&dq=distress+rocket&pg=PA44 |chapter=Historical Sketches of the Events |title=Iconic Events: Media, Politics, and Power in Retelling History |publisher=Lexington Books |pages=44–45 |isbn=9780739115206 }}</ref> Distress rockets continued to be used in different colors, as was the case with [[Sinking of the Titanic|RMS ''Titanic'']]. At the time shipping companies had "a particular kind of distress rocket (that differed by color)". Each ship was also given a guide of colors to use depending on what signal was to be sent.<ref name="TitanicRockets" /><ref>{{cite book |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=iKouAAAAYAAJ&dq=Distress+rocket&pg=PA49 |chapter=General Remarks |title=British Islands Pilot: The west coast of England and Wales |author=[[United States Hydrographic Office]] |publisher=[[United States Government Publishing Office]] |page=47 |date=1917 }}</ref>


Modern red distress signals are mentioned by the [[United States Bureau of Mines]] as early as 1925, where they state "12 handheld rocket-propelled parachute red flare distress signals" are to be used by ocean going ships.<ref>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=HOckAQAAIAAJ&dq=distress+rocket+red&pg=RA5-PA5|title=Marine Distress Signals|work=Information Circular|publisher=[[United States Bureau of Mines]]|issue=7928–7939|page=5|year=1925}}</ref> The color red was eventually incorporated for use in the United States on December 17, 1979 as part of a "Universal color language".<ref name="US1979"/> Red distress rockets and/or flares are now internationally recognized symbols that indicate a ship in distress.<ref name="IRSymbol">{{cite book|url= https://books.google.com/books?id=SusABAAAQBAJ&dq=distress+rocket+red&pg=PA197|title=Internationally Recognized Distress Signals|work=Marine Emergencies For Masters and Mates|author=David House|publisher=Taylor & Francis|page=197|year=2014|isbn=9781317673163 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dft.gov.uk/mca/msn_1781-2.pdf |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20221009/http://www.dft.gov.uk/mca/msn_1781-2.pdf |archive-date=2022-10-09 |url-status=live|title=The Merchant Shipping (Distress Signals and Prevention of Collisions) Regulations 1996|year=1996|publisher=UK Maritime and Coast Guard Agency|access-date=23 July 2013}}</ref> The [[International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea]] (SOLAS) has standards for visual signals, including both handheld and aerial flares. Handheld flares must burn for at least one minute at an average [[luminosity]] of 15,000 [[candela]]s, while aerial flares must burn for at least 40 seconds with a 30,000-candela average luminosity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=International Life-Saving Appliance (LSA) Code [under the auspices of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea [SOLAS] of 1 November 1974] (London, 4 June 1996) [1998] ATS 31 |url=http://www.austlii.edu.au/au/other/dfat/treaties/1998/31.html |access-date=2022-03-06 |website=www.austlii.edu.au}}</ref>
Modern red distress signals are mentioned by the [[United States Bureau of Mines]] as early as 1959, where they state "12 handheld rocket-propelled parachute red flare distress signals" are to be used by ocean going ships.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Schreck |first1=Albert E. |last2=Arundale |first2=Joseph C. |year=1959 |chapter=Uses, Properties, and Substitutes |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=HOckAQAAIAAJ&dq=distress+rocket+red&pg=RA5-PA5 |title=Strontium: A Materials Survey |series=Information Circular |volume=7933 |publisher=[[United States Bureau of Mines]] |pages=4-6}}</ref> The color red was eventually incorporated for use in the United States on 17 December 1979 as part of a "Universal color language".<ref name="US1979" /> Red distress rockets and/or flares are now internationally recognized symbols that indicate a ship in distress.<ref name="IRSymbol">{{cite book |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=SusABAAAQBAJ&dq=distress+rocket+red&pg=PA197 |chapter=Internationally Recognized Distress Signals |title=Marine Emergencies For Masters and Mates |first=David |last=House |publisher=Taylor & Francis |page=197 |date=2014 |isbn=9781317673163 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=The Merchant Shipping (Distress Signals and Prevention of Collisions) Regulations 1996 |url=http://www.dft.gov.uk/mca/msn_1781-2.pdf |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20221009/http://www.dft.gov.uk/mca/msn_1781-2.pdf |archive-date=9 October 2022 |url-status=live |date=1996 |publisher=UK Maritime and Coast Guard Agency }}</ref> The [[International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea]] (SOLAS) has standards for visual signals, including both handheld and aerial flares. Handheld flares must burn for at least one minute at an average [[luminosity]] of 15,000 [[candela]]s, while aerial flares must burn for at least 40 seconds with a 30,000-candela average luminosity.<ref>{{cite conference |title=International Life-Saving Appliance (LSA) Code |conference=International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea [SOLAS] of 1 November 1974 |location=London |date=4 June 1996 |url=http://www.austlii.edu.au/au/other/dfat/treaties/1998/31.html |website=Austlii.edu.au |access-date=6 March 2022 }}</ref>


While rockets and flares are still an option for signaling distress, they have since been surpassed by improved technology. Distress signals can now be sent using automated radio signals from a [[search and rescue transponder]]. Other internationally recognized methods include the radio message [[SOS]], which was used during the [[Sinking of the Titanic]], and/or the emergency procedure word "[[MAYDAY]]" which dates to the 1920s.<ref name="IRSymbol"/><ref>{{cite web|title=It's MayDay – But That Means Trouble for Aviators|date=May 2017|url=http://yorkshireairmuseum.org/journal/its-mayday-but-that-means-trouble-for-aviators/|access-date=31 March 2018|archive-date=24 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190324195512/http://yorkshireairmuseum.org/journal/its-mayday-but-that-means-trouble-for-aviators/|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |first1=Bob |last1=Learmonth |first2=Joanna |last2=Nash |first3=Douglas |last3=Cluett |year=1977 |title=The First Croydon Airport 1915–1928 |publisher=London Borough of Sutton Libraries and Arts Services |place=Sutton |isbn=978-0-9503224-3-8 |page=55 }}</ref>
While rockets and flares are still an option for signaling distress, they have since been surpassed by improved technology. Distress signals can now be sent using automated radio signals from a [[search and rescue transponder]]. Other internationally recognized methods include the radio message [[SOS]], which was used during the 1912 [[Sinking of the Titanic|sinking]] of the ''[[Titanic]]'', and the emergency procedure word "[[Mayday]]", which dates to the 1920s.<ref name="IRSymbol" /><ref>{{cite web |title=It's MayDay – But That Means Trouble for Aviators |date=May 2017 |url=http://yorkshireairmuseum.org/journal/its-mayday-but-that-means-trouble-for-aviators/ |archive-date=24 March 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190324195512/http://yorkshireairmuseum.org/journal/its-mayday-but-that-means-trouble-for-aviators/ }}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last1=Learmonth |first1=Bob |last2=Nash |first2=Joanna |last3=Cluett |first3=Douglas |date=1977 |title=The First Croydon Airport 1915–1928 |publisher=London Borough of Sutton Libraries and Arts Services |place=Sutton |isbn=978-0-9503224-3-8 |page=55 }}</ref>


===Roadside & Rail===
===Roadside and rail===
[[File:Flare 0.jpg|thumb|left|Three road flares burning]]
[[File:Flare 0.jpg|thumb|left|Three road flares burning]]


Another type of flare is the '''''fusee''''', which burns with a bright red light.<ref name="RRFlare">{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=GIiCs78um5AC&dq=fusee+flare+bright+red&pg=PA7|title=Fusee|work=Quirk V. New York, Chicago and St. Louis Railroad Company|publisher=United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit|year=1951|page=7}}</ref> These come in two main types which are used for roadways and [[rail transport]]ation. The first type are fusees used for roadways which are known as ''highway flares'' or ''road flares''.<ref>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=4Qa4AAAAIAAJ&dq=Highway+flare&pg=RA11-PA31|title=Highway Flare Signal Device|work=Products List Circular [opportunities for Small Businesses]|publisher=United States. Small Business Administration|page=31|year=1964}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Oyt__CYAJmwC&dq=road+flares&pg=RA1-PA209|title=Zimmer-cross|work=Records & Briefs New York State Appellate Division|publisher=State of New York|year=2009|page=37}}</ref> These are commonly used to indicate obstacles or advise caution on roadways at night and are found in roadside emergency kits.<ref>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=U-YmAQAAMAAJ&q=fusee+flare+road+night+obstacle|title=Automobile Cases|publisher=Commerce Clearing House|year=1961|page=801}}</ref> Law enforcement also may use these flares (either propped on a biped or laid flat) to signal traffic hazards or that a road is blocked, often as a more visible replacement for traffic cones.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-05-17|title=Emergency Flares For Road & Highway Usage » Traffic Safety Resource Center|url=https://www.trafficsafetystore.com/blog/emergency-flares-for-road-highway-usage/|access-date=2021-06-15|website=Traffic Safety Resource Center|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Police Roadside Safety: Tools to Increase Visibility|url=https://nij.ojp.gov/topics/articles/police-roadside-safety-tools-increase-visibility|access-date=2021-06-15|website=National Institute of Justice|language=en}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite web|date=June 12, 2008|title=Evaluation of Chemical and Electric Flares|url=https://www.ojp.gov/pdffiles1/nij/grants/224277.pdf |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20221009/https://www.ojp.gov/pdffiles1/nij/grants/224277.pdf |archive-date=2022-10-09 |url-status=live|access-date=June 16, 2021|website=Office of Justice Programs}}</ref> Law enforcement in the United States usually use [[magnesium]]-based flares that last from 15–30 minutes.<ref name=":0" />
Another type of flare is the '''''{{Visible anchor|fusee}}''''', which burns with a bright red light.<ref name="RRFlare">{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=GIiCs78um5AC&dq=fusee+flare+bright+red&pg=PA7 |title=Fusee |work=Quirk V. New York, Chicago and St. Louis Railroad Company |publisher=United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit |date=1951 |page=7 }}</ref> These come in two main types which are used for roadways and [[rail transport]]ation. The first type are fusees used for roadways which are known as ''highway flares'' or ''road flares''.<ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=4Qa4AAAAIAAJ&dq=Highway+flare&pg=RA11-PA31 |title=Highway Flare Signal Device |work=Products List Circular [opportunities for Small Businesses] |publisher=United States. Small Business Administration |page=31 |date=1964 }}</ref><ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Oyt__CYAJmwC&dq=road+flares&pg=RA1-PA209 |title=Zimmer-Cross |work=Records & Briefs New York State Appellate Division |publisher=State of New York |date=2009 |page=37 }}</ref> These are commonly used to indicate obstacles or advise caution on roadways at night and are found in roadside emergency kits.<ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=U-YmAQAAMAAJ&q=fusee+flare+road+night+obstacle |title=Automobile Cases |publisher=Commerce Clearing House |date=1961 |page=801 }}</ref> Law enforcement also may use these flares (either propped on a biped or laid flat) to signal traffic hazards or that a road is blocked, often as a more visible replacement for traffic cones.<ref>{{cite web |date=17 May 2019 |title=Emergency Flares for Road & Highway Usage » Traffic Safety Resource Center |url=https://www.trafficsafetystore.com/blog/emergency-flares-for-road-highway-usage/ |website=Traffic Safety Resource Center |access-date=15 June 2021 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Police Roadside Safety: Tools to Increase Visibility |url=https://nij.ojp.gov/topics/articles/police-roadside-safety-tools-increase-visibility |website=National Institute of Justice |access-date=15 June 2021 }}</ref><ref name=":0">{{cite web |date=12 June 2008 |title=Evaluation of Chemical and Electric Flares |url=https://www.ojp.gov/pdffiles1/nij/grants/224277.pdf |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20221009/https://www.ojp.gov/pdffiles1/nij/grants/224277.pdf |archive-date=9 October 2022 |url-status=live |website=Office of Justice Programs }}</ref> Law enforcement in the United States usually use [[magnesium]]-based flares that last from 15–30 minutes.<ref name=":0" />


Fusees used for rail are known as ''railroad flares'', they are commonly used to perform hand signals or used as torches in [[rail transport]] applications.<ref name="RRFlare"/><ref>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=89oznEFHF_MC&dq=railroad+flare&pg=PA603|title=Constraints on the Component Proportions|work=Response Surface Methodology Process and Product Optimization Using Designed Experiments|author=Raymond H. Myers, Douglas C. Montgomery, Christine M. Anderson-Cook|publisher=Wiley|year=2009|page=603|isbn=9780470174463 }}</ref> Railroad flares can burn for at least 10 minutes, are not fastened to train cars, and are handheld by railroad personnel for protection at night.<ref name="RRFlare"/> It was argued during an Appeals case that railroad flares are much more visible than [[lantern]]s.<ref name="RRFlare"/> In general: trains that encounter a lit railroad flare are required to stop until it burns out.<ref>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=4oWAUhZh-noC&dq=railroad+flare+pass&pg=PA2|title=Statement of Facts|work=Hatfield V. Baker|publisher=United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit|year=1973|page=2}}</ref> Fusees made specifically for railroad use can be distinguished from highway fusees by a sharp steel spike at one end, used to embed the fusee upright in a wooden [[railroad tie]].
Fusees used for rail are known as ''railroad flares'', they are commonly used to perform hand signals or used as torches in [[rail transport]] applications.<ref name="RRFlare" /><ref>{{cite book |last1=Myers |first1=Raymond H. |last2=Montgomery |first2=Douglas C. |last3=Anderson-Cook |first3=Christine M. |date=2009 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=89oznEFHF_MC&dq=railroad+flare&pg=PA603 |title=Constraints on the Component Proportions |work=Response Surface Methodology Process and Product Optimization Using Designed Experiments |publisher=Wiley |page=603 |isbn=9780470174463 }}</ref> Railroad flares can burn for at least 10 minutes, are not fastened to train cars, and are handheld by railroad personnel for protection at night.<ref name="RRFlare" /> It was argued during an Appeals case that railroad flares are much more visible than [[lantern]]s.<ref name="RRFlare" /> In general: trains that encounter a lit railroad flare are required to stop until it burns out.<ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=4oWAUhZh-noC&dq=railroad+flare+pass&pg=PA2 |title=Statement of Facts |publisher=United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit |work=Hatfield v. Baker |date=1973 |page=2 }}</ref> Fusees made specifically for railroad use can be distinguished from highway fusees by a sharp steel spike at one end, used to embed the fusee upright in a wooden [[railroad tie]].


{{clear}}
{{clear}}


===Forestry & firefighting===
===Forestry and firefighting===
In forestry and firefighting, fusees are sometimes used in [[wildfire suppression]] and in the ignition of [[controlled burn]]s. They ignite at {{convert|191|C|F}} and burn as hot as {{convert|1600|C|F}}.<ref>{{Cite book | url = http://www.nwcg.gov/pms/pubs/newshelt72.pdf | title = The New Generation Fire Shelter | publisher = National Wildfire Coordinating Group | date = March 2003 | access-date = 2009-01-16 | archive-date = 16 January 2009 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090116133450/http://www.nwcg.gov/pms/pubs/newshelt72.pdf | url-status = dead }}</ref> They are especially effective{{according to whom|date=June 2023}} in igniting burnouts or backburns in very dry conditions, but not so effective when fuel conditions are moist.{{citation needed|date=June 2023}} Since controlled burns are often done during relatively high humidity levels (on the grounds that they could not be safely contained during periods of very low humidity), the [[driptorch]] is more effective{{according to whom|date=June 2023}} and more often used.{{citation needed|date=June 2023}} Fusees are also commonly carried by [[Wilderness|wildland]] [[firefighter]]s for emergency use, to ignite an [[escape fire]] in surrounding fuels in case of being overrun by a fire if no other escape routes are available.{{citation needed|date=June 2023}}
In forestry and firefighting, fusees are sometimes used in [[wildfire suppression]] and in the ignition of [[controlled burn]]s. They ignite at {{convert|191|C|F}} and burn as hot as {{convert|1600|C|F}}.<ref>{{cite book |url=http://www.nwcg.gov/pms/pubs/newshelt72.pdf |title=The New Generation Fire Shelter |publisher=National Wildfire Coordinating Group |date=March 2003 |archive-date=16 January 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090116133450/http://www.nwcg.gov/pms/pubs/newshelt72.pdf }}</ref>


===Protests===
===Protests===
Flares are used by law enforcement agencies such as the United States [[National Guard (United States)|National Guard]], and police as a form of [[riot control]].{{fact}} This practice dates back to at least the 1940s where they are mentioned as being "useful in night operations".<ref>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Y8sOAQAAMAAJ&dq=flares+crowd+control&pg=PA197|title=Flares|work=Riot Control by the National Guard|author=Sterling A. Wood|publisher=Military service publishing Company|page=70|year=1940}}</ref> Handheld flares are also counter used by protestors at demonstrations.<ref>{{cite web|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230406150414/https://www.cnn.com/2023/04/06/business/blackrock-office-stormed-paris-protests/index.html|archivedate=April 6, 2023|url=https://www.cnn.com/2023/04/06/business/blackrock-office-stormed-paris-protests/index.html|title=Protesters storm BlackRock's Paris office holding red flares and firing smoke bombs|author=Pierre Bairin and Hanna Ziady|work=CNN|date=April 6, 2023|accessdate=July 11, 2023}}</ref>
Flares are used by law enforcement agencies such as the United States [[National Guard (United States)|National Guard]], and police as a form of [[riot control]].<ref name="Wood 1940">{{cite book |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Y8sOAQAAMAAJ&dq=flares+crowd+control&pg=PA70 |chapter=Chapter 3. Weapons; Section VIII. Chemical Munitions; 76. Parachute flares |title=Riot Control by the National Guard |first=Sterling A. |last=Wood |location=Harrisburg, Pennsylvania |publisher=The Military Service Publishing Company |page=70 |date=1940 }}</ref> This practice dates back to at least the 1940s where they are mentioned as being "useful in night operations".<ref name="Wood 1940" /> Handheld flares are also counter used by protestors at demonstrations.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Bairin |first1=Pierre |last2=Ziady |first2=Hanna |date=6 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230406150414/https://www.cnn.com/2023/04/06/business/blackrock-office-stormed-paris-protests/index.html |archive-date=6 April 2023 |url=https://www.cnn.com/2023/04/06/business/blackrock-office-stormed-paris-protests/index.html |title=Protesters Storm BlackRock's Paris Office Holding Red Flares and Firing Smoke Bombs |work=CNN }}</ref>


==Military use==
==Military use==
===Maritime signal flare===
===Maritime signal flare===
In 1859, [[Martha Coston]] patented the Coston flare based on early work by her deceased husband Benjamin Franklin Coston.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Vare|first1=Ethlie Ann|last2=Ptacek|first2=Greg|title=Patently female : from AZT to TV dinners : stories of women inventors and their breakthrough ideas|date=2002|publisher=Wiley|location=New York|isbn=0471023345|page=[https://archive.org/details/patentlyfemalefr00vare/page/23 23]|url-access=registration|url=https://archive.org/details/patentlyfemalefr00vare/page/23}}</ref> It was used extensively by the [[US Navy]] during the Civil War and by the [[United States Life-Saving Service]] (the precursor to the [[US Coast Guard]]) to signal to other ships and to shore. [[Calcium phosphide]] is often used in naval flares, as in contact with water it liberates [[phosphine]] which self ignites in contact with air; it is often used together with [[calcium carbide]] which releases [[acetylene]].{{citation needed|date=June 2023}}
In 1859, [[Martha Coston]] patented the Coston flare based on early work by her deceased husband Benjamin Franklin Coston.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Vare |first1=Ethlie Ann |last2=Ptacek |first2=Greg |date=2002 |title=Patently Female: From AZT to TV Dinners: stories of women inventors and their breakthrough ideas |publisher=Wiley |location=New York |isbn=0471023345 |page=[https://archive.org/details/patentlyfemalefr00vare/page/23 23] |url-access=registration |url=https://archive.org/details/patentlyfemalefr00vare/page/23 }}</ref>


===Illumination===
===Illumination===
{{further|Battlefield illumination}}
{{Further|Battlefield illumination}}


In 1922, a "landing flare" was an aerial candle attached to a parachute and used for landing an airplane in the dark. The flare burned for less than four minutes and the [[candlepower]] was about 40,000 [[Lumen (unit)|lumens]].<ref name="Chisholm1922">{{Cite book |last=Chisholm |first=Hugh |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=lf9aAAAAQAAJ&pg=PA86 |title=The Encyclopædia Britannica: The New Volumes, Constituting, in Combination with the Twenty-nine Volumes of the Eleventh Edition, the Twelfth Edition of that Work, and Also Supplying a New, Distinctive, and Independent Library of Reference Dealing with Events and Developments of the Period 1910 to 1921 Inclusive |date=1922 |publisher=Encyclopædia Britannica, Company Limited |language=en}}</ref>
In 1922, a "landing flare" was an aerial candle attached to a parachute and used for landing an airplane in the dark. The flare burned for less than four minutes and the [[candlepower]] was about 40,000 [[Lumen (unit)|lumens]].<ref name="Chisholm1922">{{cite book |last=Chisholm |first=Hugh |date=1922 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=lf9aAAAAQAAJ&pg=PA86 |title=The Encyclopædia Britannica: The New Volumes, Constituting, in Combination with the Twenty-nine Volumes of the Eleventh Edition, the Twelfth Edition of that Work, and Also Supplying a New, Distinctive, and Independent Library of Reference Dealing with Events and Developments of the Period 1910 to 1921 Inclusive |publisher=Encyclopædia Britannica, Company Limited }}</ref> During [[World War II]], the U.S. Navy tested underwater flares for use in detecting submarines.<ref name=Kline_Dexter_2016>{{cite journal | title=Secret Weapons, Forgotten Sacrifices | first1=Adam | last1=Kline | last2=Robyn | first2=Dexter | journal=Prologue Magazine | year=2016 | volume=48 | issue=1 | url=https://www.archives.gov/publications/prologue/2016/spring/office-scientific-research-development-world-war-ii | access-date=2024-08-16 }}</ref>


===Countermeasure===
===Countermeasure===
Line 63: Line 63:


==Regulation==
==Regulation==
Under the [[Explosives shipping classification system|UN hazard number system]], pyrotechnic flares are designated class 1.4 explosives.<ref>{{cite web|title=History of Flares|url=https://siriussignal.com/history-of-flares/|website=SiriusSignal.com|publisher=Sirius Signal|access-date=8 June 2015}}</ref>
Under the [[Explosives shipping classification system|UN hazard number system]], pyrotechnic flares are designated class 1.4 explosives.<ref>{{cite web |title=History of Flares |url=https://siriussignal.com/history-of-flares/ |website=SiriusSignal.com |publisher=Sirius Signal |access-date=8 June 2015 }}</ref>


Several U.S. states, including California and Massachusetts, have begun regulating levels of potassium perchlorate, which can be unsafe at certain levels in drinking water. Contaminated drinking water can lead to such symptoms as gastric irritation, nausea, vomiting, fever, skin rashes, and even fatal [[aplastic anemia]] (a reduction in all types of blood cells).<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Borowicz |first1=Krzysztof |last2=Dion |first2=Megan |last3=Mehta |first3=Jason |last4=Morgan |first4=Glen |date=18 December 2014 |title=Disposal of Pyrotechnic Visual Distress Signals |url=https://www.wpi.edu/Pubs/E-project/Available/E-project-121714-192922/unrestricted/USCG_Final_Report.pdf |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20221009/https://www.wpi.edu/Pubs/E-project/Available/E-project-121714-192922/unrestricted/USCG_Final_Report.pdf |archive-date=2022-10-09 |url-status=live |journal=United States Coast Guard}}</ref>
Several U.S. states, including California and Massachusetts, have begun regulating levels of potassium perchlorate, which can be unsafe at certain levels in drinking water. Contaminated drinking water can lead to such symptoms as gastric irritation, nausea, vomiting, fever, skin rashes, and even fatal [[aplastic anemia]] (a reduction in all types of blood cells).<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Borowicz |first1=Krzysztof |last2=Dion |first2=Megan |last3=Mehta |first3=Jason |last4=Morgan |first4=Glen |date=18 December 2014 |title=Disposal of Pyrotechnic Visual Distress Signals |url=https://www.wpi.edu/Pubs/E-project/Available/E-project-121714-192922/unrestricted/USCG_Final_Report.pdf |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20221009/https://www.wpi.edu/Pubs/E-project/Available/E-project-121714-192922/unrestricted/USCG_Final_Report.pdf |archive-date=9 October 2022 |url-status=live |journal=United States Coast Guard}}</ref>


==Chemistry==
==Chemistry==
Flares produce their light through the [[combustion]] of a [[pyrotechnic composition]]. The ingredients are varied, but often based on [[strontium nitrate]], [[potassium nitrate]], or [[potassium perchlorate]], mixed with a fuel such as [[charcoal]], [[sulfur]], [[sawdust]], [[aluminium]], [[magnesium]], or a suitable [[polymer]]ic [[resin]].<ref>
Flares produce their light through the [[combustion]] of a [[pyrotechnic composition]]. The ingredients are varied, but often based on [[strontium nitrate]], [[potassium nitrate]], or [[potassium perchlorate]], mixed with a fuel such as [[charcoal]], [[sulfur]], [[sawdust]], [[aluminium]], [[magnesium]], or a suitable [[polymer]]ic [[resin]].<ref>
{{Cite web |title=Mark Spiegl's Road Flare Composition Page |url=http://www.spiegl.org/rocket/flare/flare.html |access-date=2022-03-06 |website=www.spiegl.org}}
{{Cite web |title=Mark Spiegl's Road Flare Composition Page |url=http://www.spiegl.org/rocket/flare/flare.html |website=Spiegl.org |access-date=6 March 2022 }}
</ref> Flares may be colored by the inclusion of [[pyrotechnic colorant]]s. [[Calcium]] flares are used underwater to illuminate submerged objects. *Note- Fusees manufactured in the United States no longer use [[potassium perchlorate]] as an oxidizer and do not contain [[aluminium]] or [[magnesium]].
</ref> Flares may be colored by the inclusion of [[pyrotechnic colorant]]s. [[Calcium]] flares are used underwater to illuminate submerged objects. *Note- Fusees manufactured in the United States no longer use [[potassium perchlorate]] as an oxidizer and do not contain [[aluminium]] or [[magnesium]].


===Perchlorate flare health issues===
===Perchlorate flare health issues===
Many in-service colored signal flares and spectrally balanced [[Flare (countermeasure)|decoy flares]] contain [[perchlorate]] [[Oxidizing agent|oxidizers]]. Perchlorate, a type of [[Salt (chemistry)|salt]] in its solid form, dissolves and moves rapidly in groundwater and surface water. Even in low concentrations in drinking water supplies, perchlorate is known to inhibit the uptake of [[Iodine in biology|iodine]] by the [[thyroid gland]]. While there are currently no US federal [[drinking water standard]]s for perchlorate, some states have established public health goals or action levels, and some are in the process of establishing state maximum contaminant levels. For example, the [[US Environmental Protection Agency]] has studied the impacts of perchlorate on the environment as well as drinking water.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Water: Unregulated |url=http://www.epa.gov/safewater/contaminants/unregulated/perchlorate.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150218032723/http://www.epa.gov/safewater/contaminants/unregulated/perchlorate.html |archive-date=18 February 2015 |access-date=5 March 2022 |website=EPA}}</ref> California has also issued guidance regarding perchlorate use.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.cdph.ca.gov/certlic/drinkingwater/Pages/Perchlorate.aspx |title=Perchlorate in Drinking Water |access-date=2010-06-24 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100627215056/http://www.cdph.ca.gov/certlic/drinkingwater/Pages/perchlorate.aspx |archive-date=27 June 2010 |df=dmy-all }}</ref>
Many in-service colored signal flares and spectrally balanced [[Flare (countermeasure)|decoy flares]] contain [[perchlorate]] [[Oxidizing agent|oxidizers]]. Perchlorate, a type of [[Salt (chemistry)|salt]] in its solid form, dissolves and moves rapidly in groundwater and surface water. Even in low concentrations in drinking water supplies, perchlorate is known to inhibit the uptake of [[Iodine in biology|iodine]] by the [[thyroid gland]]. While there are currently no US federal [[drinking water standard]]s for perchlorate, some states have established public health goals or action levels, and some are in the process of establishing state maximum contaminant levels. For example, the [[US Environmental Protection Agency]] has studied the impacts of perchlorate on the environment as well as drinking water.<ref>{{cite web |title=Water: Unregulated |url=http://www.epa.gov/safewater/contaminants/unregulated/perchlorate.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150218032723/http://www.epa.gov/safewater/contaminants/unregulated/perchlorate.html |archive-date=18 February 2015 |website=EPA}}</ref> California has also issued guidance regarding perchlorate use.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.cdph.ca.gov/certlic/drinkingwater/Pages/Perchlorate.aspx |title=Perchlorate in Drinking Water |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100627215056/http://www.cdph.ca.gov/certlic/drinkingwater/Pages/perchlorate.aspx |archive-date=27 June 2010 }}</ref>


US courts have taken action regarding the use of perchlorate in manufacturing pyrotechnic devices such as flares. For example, in 2003, a federal district court in California found that the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) applied because perchlorate is ignitable and therefore a "characteristic" [[Hazardous waste in the United States|hazardous waste]].<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Jackson |first=Jim |date=March 2010 |title=Pipeline Flash Reactor Technology Selected for Castaic Lake Water Agency Expansion |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/j.1551-8833.2010.tb10070.x |journal=Journal - American Water Works Association |volume=102 |issue=3 |pages=33–34 |doi=10.1002/j.1551-8833.2010.tb10070.x |s2cid=116522917 |issn=0003-150X}}</ref>
US courts have taken action regarding the use of perchlorate in manufacturing pyrotechnic devices such as flares. For example, in 2003, a federal district court in California found that the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) applied because perchlorate is ignitable and therefore a "characteristic" [[Hazardous waste in the United States|hazardous waste]].<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Jackson |first=Jim |date=March 2010 |title=Pipeline Flash Reactor Technology Selected for Castaic Lake Water Agency Expansion |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/j.1551-8833.2010.tb10070.x |journal=Journal - American Water Works Association |volume=102 |issue=3 |pages=33–34 |doi=10.1002/j.1551-8833.2010.tb10070.x |bibcode=2010JAWWA.102c..33J |s2cid=116522917 |issn=0003-150X }}</ref>


==See also==
==See also==
* {{Annotated link|Blue light (pyrotechnic signal)}}

* {{annotated link|Blue light (pyrotechnic signal)}}
* {{Annotated link|Flare gun}}
* {{annotated link|Flare gun}}
* {{Annotated link|Magnesium torch}}
⚫
* {{Annotated link|Shell (projectile)#Illumination|Shell (projectile)}}
* {{annotated link|Magnesium torch}}
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* {{annotated link|Shell (projectile)#Illumination|Shell (projectile)}}


==References==
==References==
{{Reflist|30em}}
{{Reflist}}


==Further reading==
==Further reading==
* {{cite journal |last=Wallbank |first=Alister |title=Can anybody see me? (modified reprint from ''DIVER 2000''; 45 (2) February: 72–74) |journal=Journal of the South Pacific Underwater Medicine Society |volume=31 |issue=2 |pages=116–119 |year=2001 |url=http://archive.rubicon-foundation.org/7727 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090116014929/http://archive.rubicon-foundation.org/7727 |url-status=usurped |archive-date=16 January 2009 |access-date=2008-10-13 }}
* {{cite journal |last=Wallbank |first=Alister |title=Can Anybody See Me? (modified reprint from ''DIVER 2000''; 45 (2) February: 72–74) |journal=Journal of the South Pacific Underwater Medicine Society |volume=31 |issue=2 |pages=116–119 |date=2001 |url=http://archive.rubicon-foundation.org/7727 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090116014929/http://archive.rubicon-foundation.org/7727 |url-status=usurped |archive-date=16 January 2009 }}


== External links ==
== External links ==
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[[Category:Lighting]]
[[Category:Lighting]]
[[Category:Maritime safety]]
[[Category:Maritime safety]]
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[[Category:Military history of the Song dynasty]]
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[[Category:Military history of the Yuan dynasty]]
[[Category:Missile countermeasures]]
[[Category:Missile countermeasures]]
[[Category:Pyrotechnics]]
[[Category:Pyrotechnics]]
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[[Category:Military history of the Song dynasty]]
[[Category:Wildfire suppression equipment]]
[[Category:Wildfire suppression equipment]]
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[[Category:Military history of the Yuan dynasty]]

Latest revision as of 19:06, 22 August 2024

For other uses, see Flare (disambiguation). "Signal flare" redirects here. For the character, see Signal Flare (Transformers).

Illumination flares being used during military training exercises
Flares being fired from a ship during a fleet review

A flare, also sometimes called a fusée, fusee, or bengala,[1][2] bengalo[3] in several European countries, is a type of pyrotechnic that produces a bright light or intense heat without an explosion. Flares are used for distress signaling, illumination, or defensive countermeasures in civilian and military applications. Flares may be ground pyrotechnics, projectile pyrotechnics, or parachute-suspended to provide maximum illumination time over a large area. Projectile pyrotechnics may be dropped from aircraft, fired from rocket or artillery, or deployed by flare guns or handheld percussive tubes.

Origin

[edit]
See also: History of gunpowder and Fireworks

The earliest recorded use of gunpowder for signaling purposes was the 'signal bomb' used by the Chinese Song Dynasty (960–1279) as the Mongol-led Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368) besieged Yangzhou in 1276.[4] These soft-shelled bombs, timed to explode in midair, were used to send messages to a detachment of troops far in the distance. Another mention of the signal bomb appears in a text dating from 1293 requesting their collection from those still stored in Zhejiang.[4] A signal gun appears in Korea by 1600. The Wu I Thu Phu Thung Chih or Illustrated Military Encyclopedia, written in 1791, depicts a signal gun in an illustration.[5]

Civilian use

[edit]
A conventional flare pistol. This particular model uses 26.5-millimeter (1.04 in) flares (manufactured by Patel Ballistics).

In the civilian world, flares are commonly used as signals, and may be ignited on the ground, fired as an aerial signal from a pistol-like flare gun, or launched from a self-contained tube. Flares are commonly found in marine survival kits.

Maritime distress signal

[edit]

Distress rockets (aka "rocket-propelled parachute flares"[6]) have been mentioned in the modern era for civilian maritime emergencies since at least 1856. The U.S. Nautical Magazine of that year mentions the use of "rocket stations" for ship related emergencies.[7] White rockets were solely used until 1873, when commander John Yorke of the Royal Navy suggested that rockets for distress should have a distinctive color. The request was made to help ease confusion between ships in distress and rockets used by pilot ships.[8] By 1875, the Board of Trade (UK) had issued regulations for Captains in regards to night signals. Rockets containing at least 16oz of composition were only to be used as a sign for a ship in distress. Passenger ships at the time were required to carry 12 of these rockets.[9] The Merchant Shipping Act of 1894 further stated that these rockets were to be fired one at a time in short intervals of approximately one minute apart.[10] Distress rockets continued to be used in different colors, as was the case with RMS Titanic. At the time shipping companies had "a particular kind of distress rocket (that differed by color)". Each ship was also given a guide of colors to use depending on what signal was to be sent.[10][11]

Modern red distress signals are mentioned by the United States Bureau of Mines as early as 1959, where they state "12 handheld rocket-propelled parachute red flare distress signals" are to be used by ocean going ships.[12] The color red was eventually incorporated for use in the United States on 17 December 1979 as part of a "Universal color language".[6] Red distress rockets and/or flares are now internationally recognized symbols that indicate a ship in distress.[13][14] The International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) has standards for visual signals, including both handheld and aerial flares. Handheld flares must burn for at least one minute at an average luminosity of 15,000 candelas, while aerial flares must burn for at least 40 seconds with a 30,000-candela average luminosity.[15]

While rockets and flares are still an option for signaling distress, they have since been surpassed by improved technology. Distress signals can now be sent using automated radio signals from a search and rescue transponder. Other internationally recognized methods include the radio message SOS, which was used during the 1912 sinking of the Titanic, and the emergency procedure word "Mayday", which dates to the 1920s.[13][16][17]

Roadside and rail

[edit]
Three road flares burning

Another type of flare is the fusee, which burns with a bright red light.[18] These come in two main types which are used for roadways and rail transportation. The first type are fusees used for roadways which are known as highway flares or road flares.[19][20] These are commonly used to indicate obstacles or advise caution on roadways at night and are found in roadside emergency kits.[21] Law enforcement also may use these flares (either propped on a biped or laid flat) to signal traffic hazards or that a road is blocked, often as a more visible replacement for traffic cones.[22][23][24] Law enforcement in the United States usually use magnesium-based flares that last from 15–30 minutes.[24]

Fusees used for rail are known as railroad flares, they are commonly used to perform hand signals or used as torches in rail transport applications.[18][25] Railroad flares can burn for at least 10 minutes, are not fastened to train cars, and are handheld by railroad personnel for protection at night.[18] It was argued during an Appeals case that railroad flares are much more visible than lanterns.[18] In general: trains that encounter a lit railroad flare are required to stop until it burns out.[26] Fusees made specifically for railroad use can be distinguished from highway fusees by a sharp steel spike at one end, used to embed the fusee upright in a wooden railroad tie.

Forestry and firefighting

[edit]

In forestry and firefighting, fusees are sometimes used in wildfire suppression and in the ignition of controlled burns. They ignite at 191 °C (376 °F) and burn as hot as 1,600 °C (2,910 °F).[27]

Protests

[edit]

Flares are used by law enforcement agencies such as the United States National Guard, and police as a form of riot control.[28] This practice dates back to at least the 1940s where they are mentioned as being "useful in night operations".[28] Handheld flares are also counter used by protestors at demonstrations.[29]

Military use

[edit]

Maritime signal flare

[edit]

In 1859, Martha Coston patented the Coston flare based on early work by her deceased husband Benjamin Franklin Coston.[30]

Illumination

[edit]
Further information: Battlefield illumination

In 1922, a "landing flare" was an aerial candle attached to a parachute and used for landing an airplane in the dark. The flare burned for less than four minutes and the candlepower was about 40,000 lumens.[31] During World War II, the U.S. Navy tested underwater flares for use in detecting submarines.[32]

Countermeasure

[edit]
Main article: Flare (countermeasure)

A special variety of flares is used in military aircraft as a defensive countermeasure against heat-seeking missiles. These flares are usually discharged individually or in salvos by the pilot or automatically by tail-warning devices, and are accompanied by vigorous evasive maneuvering. Since they are intended to deceive infrared missiles, these flares burn at temperatures of thousands of degrees, incandescing in the visible spectrum as well.

Tripflares

[edit]
Main article: Tripflare

Flares connected to tripwires are used to guard an area against infiltration. The flare begins burning when the tripwire is triggered, providing both alarm and illumination.

Regulation

[edit]

Under the UN hazard number system, pyrotechnic flares are designated class 1.4 explosives.[33]

Several U.S. states, including California and Massachusetts, have begun regulating levels of potassium perchlorate, which can be unsafe at certain levels in drinking water. Contaminated drinking water can lead to such symptoms as gastric irritation, nausea, vomiting, fever, skin rashes, and even fatal aplastic anemia (a reduction in all types of blood cells).[34]

Chemistry

[edit]

Flares produce their light through the combustion of a pyrotechnic composition. The ingredients are varied, but often based on strontium nitrate, potassium nitrate, or potassium perchlorate, mixed with a fuel such as charcoal, sulfur, sawdust, aluminium, magnesium, or a suitable polymeric resin.[35] Flares may be colored by the inclusion of pyrotechnic colorants. Calcium flares are used underwater to illuminate submerged objects. *Note- Fusees manufactured in the United States no longer use potassium perchlorate as an oxidizer and do not contain aluminium or magnesium.

Perchlorate flare health issues

[edit]

Many in-service colored signal flares and spectrally balanced decoy flares contain perchlorate oxidizers. Perchlorate, a type of salt in its solid form, dissolves and moves rapidly in groundwater and surface water. Even in low concentrations in drinking water supplies, perchlorate is known to inhibit the uptake of iodine by the thyroid gland. While there are currently no US federal drinking water standards for perchlorate, some states have established public health goals or action levels, and some are in the process of establishing state maximum contaminant levels. For example, the US Environmental Protection Agency has studied the impacts of perchlorate on the environment as well as drinking water.[36] California has also issued guidance regarding perchlorate use.[37]

US courts have taken action regarding the use of perchlorate in manufacturing pyrotechnic devices such as flares. For example, in 2003, a federal district court in California found that the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) applied because perchlorate is ignitable and therefore a "characteristic" hazardous waste.[38]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Fumogeni e bengala allo stadio: Quando è reato?". 27 March 2018.
  2. ^ "Un niño herido por la pirotecnia de los ultras del Sporting de Portugal". 24 February 2023.
  3. ^ "Freimann: England-Fan zündet Bengalo in seinem Hotelzimmer". 7 June 2022.
  4. ^ a b Needham, Joseph (1986). Science and Civilisation in China: The Gunpowder Epic. Cambridge University Press. p. 169. ISBN 978-0-521-30358-3.
  5. ^ Needham, Joseph (1986). Science and Civilisation in China: The Gunpowder Epic. Cambridge University Press. p. 331. ISBN 978-0-521-30358-3.
  6. ^ a b 46  CFR /part-156–165 156–165
  7. ^ Postans, Robert (1856). "Night Signals at Sea". Monthly Nautical Magazine, and Quarterly Review (1856). Vol. 5. Griffiths & Bates. pp. 125–132.
  8. ^ "To the Editor of the 'Times.'". The Loss of the "Northfleet". Waterlow & Sons. 1873. p. 96.
  9. ^ "Rockets for Distress Signals". The Nautical Magazine. Cambridge University Press. 1875. pp. 956–957. ISBN 9781108056540.
  10. ^ a b Leavy, Patricia (2007). "Historical Sketches of the Events". Iconic Events: Media, Politics, and Power in Retelling History. Lexington Books. pp. 44–45. ISBN 9780739115206.
  11. ^ United States Hydrographic Office (1917). "General Remarks". British Islands Pilot: The west coast of England and Wales. United States Government Publishing Office. p. 47.
  12. ^ Schreck, Albert E.; Arundale, Joseph C. (1959). "Uses, Properties, and Substitutes". Strontium: A Materials Survey. Information Circular. Vol. 7933. United States Bureau of Mines. pp. 4–6.
  13. ^ a b House, David (2014). "Internationally Recognized Distress Signals". Marine Emergencies For Masters and Mates. Taylor & Francis. p. 197. ISBN 9781317673163.
  14. ^ "The Merchant Shipping (Distress Signals and Prevention of Collisions) Regulations 1996" (PDF). UK Maritime and Coast Guard Agency. 1996. Archived (PDF) from the original on 9 October 2022.
  15. ^ International Life-Saving Appliance (LSA) Code. International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea [SOLAS] of 1 November 1974. Austlii.edu.au. London. 4 June 1996. Retrieved 6 March 2022.
  16. ^ "It's MayDay – But That Means Trouble for Aviators". May 2017. Archived from the original on 24 March 2019.
  17. ^ Learmonth, Bob; Nash, Joanna; Cluett, Douglas (1977). The First Croydon Airport 1915–1928. Sutton: London Borough of Sutton Libraries and Arts Services. p. 55. ISBN 978-0-9503224-3-8.
  18. ^ a b c d Fusee. United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit. 1951. p. 7. {{cite book}}: |work= ignored (help)
  19. ^ Highway Flare Signal Device. United States. Small Business Administration. 1964. p. 31. {{cite book}}: |work= ignored (help)
  20. ^ Zimmer-Cross. State of New York. 2009. p. 37. {{cite book}}: |work= ignored (help)
  21. ^ Automobile Cases. Commerce Clearing House. 1961. p. 801.
  22. ^ "Emergency Flares for Road & Highway Usage » Traffic Safety Resource Center". Traffic Safety Resource Center. 17 May 2019. Retrieved 15 June 2021.
  23. ^ "Police Roadside Safety: Tools to Increase Visibility". National Institute of Justice. Retrieved 15 June 2021.
  24. ^ a b "Evaluation of Chemical and Electric Flares" (PDF). Office of Justice Programs. 12 June 2008. Archived (PDF) from the original on 9 October 2022.
  25. ^ Myers, Raymond H.; Montgomery, Douglas C.; Anderson-Cook, Christine M. (2009). Constraints on the Component Proportions. Wiley. p. 603. ISBN 9780470174463. {{cite book}}: |work= ignored (help)
  26. ^ Statement of Facts. United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit. 1973. p. 2. {{cite book}}: |work= ignored (help)
  27. ^ The New Generation Fire Shelter (PDF). National Wildfire Coordinating Group. March 2003. Archived from the original (PDF) on 16 January 2009.
  28. ^ a b Wood, Sterling A. (1940). "Chapter 3. Weapons; Section VIII. Chemical Munitions; 76. Parachute flares". Riot Control by the National Guard. Harrisburg, Pennsylvania: The Military Service Publishing Company. p. 70.
  29. ^ Bairin, Pierre; Ziady, Hanna (6 April 2023). "Protesters Storm BlackRock's Paris Office Holding Red Flares and Firing Smoke Bombs". CNN. Archived from the original on 6 April 2023.
  30. ^ Vare, Ethlie Ann; Ptacek, Greg (2002). Patently Female: From AZT to TV Dinners: stories of women inventors and their breakthrough ideas. New York: Wiley. p. 23. ISBN 0471023345.
  31. ^ Chisholm, Hugh (1922). The Encyclopædia Britannica: The New Volumes, Constituting, in Combination with the Twenty-nine Volumes of the Eleventh Edition, the Twelfth Edition of that Work, and Also Supplying a New, Distinctive, and Independent Library of Reference Dealing with Events and Developments of the Period 1910 to 1921 Inclusive. Encyclopædia Britannica, Company Limited.
  32. ^ Kline, Adam; Robyn, Dexter (2016). "Secret Weapons, Forgotten Sacrifices". Prologue Magazine. 48 (1). Retrieved 16 August 2024.
  33. ^ "History of Flares". SiriusSignal.com. Sirius Signal. Retrieved 8 June 2015.
  34. ^ Borowicz, Krzysztof; Dion, Megan; Mehta, Jason; Morgan, Glen (18 December 2014). "Disposal of Pyrotechnic Visual Distress Signals" (PDF). United States Coast Guard. Archived (PDF) from the original on 9 October 2022.
  35. ^ "Mark Spiegl's Road Flare Composition Page". Spiegl.org. Retrieved 6 March 2022.
  36. ^ "Water: Unregulated". EPA. Archived from the original on 18 February 2015.
  37. ^ "Perchlorate in Drinking Water". Archived from the original on 27 June 2010.
  38. ^ Jackson, Jim (March 2010). "Pipeline Flash Reactor Technology Selected for Castaic Lake Water Agency Expansion". Journal - American Water Works Association. 102 (3): 33–34. Bibcode:2010JAWWA.102c..33J. doi:10.1002/j.1551-8833.2010.tb10070.x. ISSN 0003-150X. S2CID 116522917.

Further reading

[edit]
[edit]
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