Boaters across the North can now dispose of their expired flares safely and easily with the return of the NSW Maritime’s flare collection program.
The NSW Maritime collection program has increased from two to three stages, with mobile collections up and down the NSW coast from November 20-30, from January 8-17, and April 1-18 in 2021.
“Expired flares are classified as Class 1 explosives under the Australian Dangerous Goods Code and require authorised disposal,” NSW Maritime Executive Director, Mark Hutchings, said.
“Flares are to be used when you’re in trouble.
“They provide an exact location for searching aircraft or vessels and they are only to be lit when rescuers are in view.
“Most flares have a use-by date of three years and they must be replaced before the expiry date, with penalties applicable for those found to be using or carrying expired flares.
“This collection program provides the boating community with an opportunity to safely dispose of their out of date flares, particularly as flare collection is not permitted at service centres, registries or maritime sites,” he added.
Hutchings said that flares were an important component of required safety equipment.
NSW Maritime Boating Education Officers will be available to assist boaters at some of the flare collection points with advice on flares and other safety equipment such as lifejacket servicing and to answer any questions about boating safety rules.
Northerners will be able to dispose of their expired flares when the program comes to Cabbage Tree Harbour, Norah Head, from 7:30 to 9am on Friday, November 27.
Locals who are unable to make it to Norah Head during the collection time can also head south to Terrigal Haven Boat Ramp (10:30am to 12pm), Gosford Boat Ramp (1 to 2:30pm) or Lions Park Boat Ramp, Woy Woy (3:30 to 5pm) on the same day.
Source:
Press release, Nov 18
Transport for NSW Media