Storing flares

[steffen]

I plan to store my flares in a rack on the bulkhead in the cabin next to the entrance. The idea is to have them readily available when the need arises.
My worry is dampness.
How vulnerable are flares for humidity?
Is it better to store them in a watertight container?

Happy sailing, Steffen

 

[LORDNELSON]

Steffen, It is generally considered best to keep flares in a waterproof container, like the big (and expensive yellow plastic bottles promoted by flare manufacturers). There was a study carried out by, I think, PBO a few years ago when they soaked a variety of flares in a bucket and then tried igniting them - with mixed results. Personally I would expect flares, even if not kept in a bottle, to last for 3 to 4 years. My approach is to keep the flares in a watertight container but to take a few ready use flares out at the start of a trip to another port and put them back in the container when I reach the port. The RNLI recommend making sure that the flares are packed so that they do not get knocked about much in their container.
Hope this helps.

 

[mtb]

Safeways were selling uncle bens rice in lage containers , they are about the same size as the posh yellow Pains one that holds my flares kit .
I have five ( coastal use only ) packed with expanded foam to hold them .
I keep them in the grab bag along with other bits .
Mick

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/boats
I want a big steel ex trawler / tug v / cheap or swap for tug

 

[stretch33]

Hi, As the other replies said it probably pays to keep em in a container of some of some sort. I have two white collision flares clipped just inside the companion way hatch ready for grabbing should the need arise.
Phil

 

[dickh]

I have 2 each white, red hand and 2 red parachute clipped underneath the cockpit locker lids for instant use and a set in a waterproof container. They need to be good clips because if the lid is dropped they fall into the locker!

 

[steffen]

Thanks for the advices to all. I will keep the best of both worlds: during the trip in the rack as planned and afterwards in a container.
The rice idea is great as it absorbs moisture and prevents the flares from bouncing around.

Happy sailling, Steffen