The Role of Marine Pyrotechnics in Ensuring Safety at Sea

MOB Signal Flare on Board a ship

SNG: Proud Distributors of Ikaros – Leaders in Lifesaving Distress Signals

When it comes to maritime safety, having reliable emergency equipment can truly make a difference. That’s why SNG is proud to be the trusted distributor of the Ikaros range of lifesaving marine pyrotechnics, distress signals and other essential marine safety products. In the unpredictable and often harsh environment of the sea, ensuring your emergency signals work flawlessly is paramount—after all, in critical moments, there’s no room for error. Your life could depend on it.

The Critical Importance of Reliable Marine Pyrotechnics

Distress signals and emergency flares must not only be dependable but also easy to use. Therefore, clear instructions are crucial to ensure that, under pressure, you know exactly what to do. In a marine emergency, these signals are vital for drawing the attention of rescuers, whether you’re on a large vessel or a small lifeboat. Since 1888, Ikaros has set the global standard for producing high-quality distress signals, known for their precision and effectiveness. Moreover, all of their products meet the demanding requirements of the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) regulations, which represent the gold standard in maritime safety.

Ikaros' Range of Products: Lifesaving Innovations

At SNG, we offer the full range of Ikaros products, each designed to ensure the highest level of safety at sea.

1. Parachute Rocket Red:

Introduced in 1959, the Ikaros parachute rocket is a leader in long-range distress signaling. Upon activation, the rocket launches a bright red flare high into the sky, signaling the location of a vessel in distress. Notably, it’s waterproof, operable underwater, and features a non-slip surface for safe handling. The Ikaros parachute rocket is globally approved and meets the latest SOLAS requirements.

Click Here For Tutorial on How to Use the Parachute Rocket Red

Parachute rocket red

2. Man Overboard (MOB) Light & Smoke Signal MKCI:

This compact light and smoke signal is an essential tool in man-overboard situations. It releases dense orange smoke and bright 360-degree light, clearly marking the person’s position in the water. Approved under SOLAS, this highly compact device can be easily mounted on a vessel, ensuring it’s always within reach when needed.

Man Overboard (MOB) compact light and smoke signal

3. Buoyant Smoke (3 Minute):

For daytime emergencies, the buoyant smoke signal provides a dense orange plume visible from kilometers away, ideal for alerting nearby boats or rescue aircraft. Its corrosion-resistant steel case and simple operation make it a must-have in any marine safety kit.

Click Here for Tutorial on How to Use Buoyant Smoke

4. Line Thrower

This powerful device is designed for rescue operations, capable of casting a pilot line up to 300 meters to assist in ship-to-ship or ship-to-shore rescues. Additionally, the line thrower is waterproof and easy to activate, providing a robust and reliable tool for emergency situations.

Click Here for Tutorial on How to Use the Line Thrower

IKAROS Line Thrower - man on ship holding line thrower

5. Hand Flare Red

Designed for short-range signaling, the Ikaros hand flare emits a bright red light for both day and night use. Its small size and ease of operation make it ideal for lifeboats and recreational vessels. Like all Ikaros products, it’s globally approved and adheres to the latest SOLAS regulations.

Click Here for Tutorial on How to Use a Hand Held Flare 

IKAROS Hand Flare Red - man holding flare in use at night

The Significance of Marine Pyrotechnics

Marine pyrotechnics play an irreplaceable role in ensuring safety at sea. Whether it’s the bright flare of a parachute rocket or the dense smoke from a buoyant signal, these tools provide visibility in the most critical moments. Hand-held flares serve as beacons of hope, while MOB lights ensure swift rescue in man-overboard situations. Furthermore, line thrower rockets bridge the gap between vessels in emergencies, facilitating the safe transfer of personnel or supplies. When used correctly, these tools can mean the difference between life and death in an emergency.

Expertise in Marine Pyrotechnics at SNG

At SNG, we understand the vital role that marine pyrotechnics play in keeping seafarers safe. That’s why we are proud to offer Ikaros’ world-class range of distress signals, ensuring that every mariner is prepared for the unexpected. With decades of expertise in marine safety, SNG is committed to providing high-quality solutions that meet the highest global standards.

Handling Time-Expired Pyrotechnics

It’s essential to remember that pyrotechnic devices, like all safety equipment, have an expiration date. Time-expired pyrotechnics (TEPs) can become unreliable and dangerous if not disposed of properly. Using expired flares or distress signals in an emergency could lead to failure, putting lives at risk. Therefore, always check the expiration dates on your pyrotechnics and replace them before they expire. SNG can assist with the safe disposal and replacement of time-expired pyrotechnics, ensuring you are always equipped with reliable, up-to-date safety gear.

Share the Post:

Related Posts

Get in touch

To find out more about SNG, the solutions we offer, or the career opportunities we have available, please complete the form, and a member of our team will get back to you.