ACR ResQflare PRO
New from ACR, the ResQflare PRO is a battery-powered Electronic Visual Distress Signal Device (eVDSD) that is much brighter than previous versions. It uses multiple colors to flash a digital SOS signal that can be seen more easily and from further away than previous white flashing versions. The idea is that instead of launching flares, which can only be seen for a short period of time, the electronic device can continuously signal a distress call for hours, significantly increasing the chance of rescue.
The ResQflare PRO from ACR is a battery-powered electronic boat flare that is much brighter than previous versions and can be seen for eight miles or more. I saw this device in action at the Miami boat show, where they had to mount it high above their booth to keep people’s eyes from hurting. The ResQflare PRO emits the flash characteristic for the International Morse Code for S-O-S, but the signal uses color, unlike previous versions. The first “S” is represented by three red-orange LED flashes, followed by the “O,” which is represented by three cyan LED flashes, and the final “S,” which is represented by another three red-orange LED flashes. Simultaneous with the visible red-orange and cyan flashing LEDs, the device flashes Infrared (IR) signals in the same S-O-S pattern. This optimizes the device’s ability to be seen by Night Vision Goggles (NVG) and cameras used by the United States Coast Guard (USCG) and other rescue operators. The ResQflare PRO is waterproof and floats. It can be seen from ≥180° and signals for at least three hours using regular batteries that can be purchased over the counter.
Since 2015, the USCG has approved electronic beacons as an alternative to signal flares for nighttime use on vessels up to 65’ in coastal waters. When combined with a Day Visual Distress Signal, which can consist of a distress flag at least 3′ x 3′ with a black square and ball on an orange background, these devices meet U.S. requirements. Smoke flares are another alternative for day signaling and are required in Canada. They meet their requirements when combined with an approved eVDSD.
To find out whether the ResQflare PRO meets the requirements for your vessel, check out this ACR Blog Post.
If you are just trying to meet requirements, want to do away with regular flares, or simply add another rescue device to the ones you have on board, the new ResQflare PRO is a new, brighter eVDSD that retails for around $200 (USD).
