Introduction
Safety is the top priority in the maritime industry. Signal devices are not just equipment; they are a crucial lifeline in emergency situations. Gaelix Marine Service, as the official representative of Lalizas—a global leader in marine safety equipment—offers a wide range of signal devices to meet international safety standards.
In this article, we will examine three key types of signal devices—flares, smoke signals, and electronic beacons. We will explore their advantages, disadvantages, applications, and the importance of proper certification.
1. Flares
Description and Function
Flares are pyrotechnic signaling devices that emit a bright light visible from great distances. They can be hand-held (held in the hand) or rocket-launched (shot into the air to explode at a certain altitude). They are used in emergency situations to signal distress or mark the location of a vessel.
Advantages
- High visibility – The intense light is easily seen even in fog, rain, or cloudy conditions.
- Ease of use – No special skills are required to activate a flare.
Disadvantages
- Limited burn time – They last only 30 to 60 seconds, after which they lose effectiveness.
- Fire hazard – High temperatures during combustion pose a risk of fire.
- Shelf life – Over time, pyrotechnic elements degrade and require replacement.
Applications
Flares are primarily used at night or in low-visibility conditions for distress signaling. They are mandatory safety equipment on most vessels.
Example Product
Lalizas Hand-Held Red Flare (SOLAS Certified) – provides bright illumination for 60 seconds, ensuring visibility in emergency situations.
2. Smoke Signals
Description and Function
Smoke signals are pyrotechnic devices that produce dense, colored smoke. They are most effective during the daytime when light signals may not be as visible.
Advantages
- Longer duration – Most smoke signals last up to 3 minutes, much longer than flares.
- Safety – They do not emit open flames, making them less of a fire hazard.
Disadvantages
- Limited visibility at night – Smoke signals are ineffective in darkness.
- Weather dependency – Strong winds or heavy rain can reduce their effectiveness.
Applications
Used for distress signaling, marking the location of a vessel, or coordinating rescue operations.
Example Product
Lalizas Orange Smoke Signal (SOLAS Certified) – provides 3 minutes of dense orange smoke, water-resistant, and suitable for harsh maritime conditions.
3. Electronic Beacons
Description and Function
Electronic beacons are modern devices that transmit radio distress signals via satellite networks. The two main types are:
- EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon) – used for vessels.
- PLB (Personal Locator Beacon) – used for individual crew members.
Advantages
- Automatic activation – Many models activate automatically upon contact with water.
- Long operating time – They can transmit signals for several days.
- High accuracy – GPS-enabled models provide precise location data.
Disadvantages
- Dependence on satellite communication – In rare cases, signal transmission may be delayed.
- Requires maintenance – Batteries must be checked and replaced periodically.
Applications
Electronic beacons are used for automatic distress signaling and precise location tracking of a vessel or person in an emergency.
Example Product
Search and Rescue Transponder S100 – A SOLAS and GMDSS-compliant emergency radio beacon with GPS, providing accurate distress location tracking.
4. Comparison Table of Signal Devices
| Type of Device | Visibility | Operating Time | Safety | Application | Example Model (Lalizas) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flares | Up to 10 km | 30-60 seconds | Fire hazard | Nighttime, emergencies | Red Hand-Held Flare (SOLAS) |
| Smoke Signals | High (daytime) | Up to 3 minutes | Safe | Daytime distress signaling | Orange Smoke Signal (SOLAS) |
| Electronic Beacons | Global (via satellite) | Several days | Completely safe | 24/7 distress signaling | Search and Rescue Transponder S100 (MED & FCC) |
5. Why is Certification Important?
Certified signal devices meet strict international safety standards:
- SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) – International convention for maritime safety.
- MED (Marine Equipment Directive) – European standard for marine equipment.
- GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress and Safety System) – A global emergency communication system.
Lalizas products undergo rigorous testing to comply with these standards, ensuring maximum reliability in emergency situations.
6. Real-Life Rescue Story
In 2023, off the coast of Greece, a yacht was caught in a violent storm and lost control. The captain was unable to send a distress signal manually, but the Lalizas Search and Rescue Transponder S100 automatically activated upon contact with water. Rescue services received precise coordinates and arrived at the scene within hours, successfully saving the crew.
7. Where to Buy Lalizas Signal Devices?
As the official representative of Lalizas, Gaelix Marine Service offers certified signal devices at competitive prices.
We invite supply and management companies to collaborate with us. We offer flexible terms, expert consultations, and fast delivery.
Explore our catalog and choose the right equipment for your vessel.
➡ Visit the Gaelix Marine Service Catalog
Conclusion
Flares, smoke signals, and electronic beacons serve different purposes, each with its own advantages. To ensure maximum safety at sea, choosing the right equipment and ensuring certification compliance is essential.
Gaelix Marine Service provides top-quality solutions from Lalizas, proven effective in real-life rescue operations. Safety is not an option—it’s a necessity.
Make the right choice today. Visit our website and place your order now!