SOLAS life saving signals

[kaptain krunchie]

Have any SAR crew experienced the use of SOLAS star shells being used during a rescue?

I know they only reach a height of approx 65m but surely the use of (especially) a white flare would ruin night vision?

[minigundiplomat]

A white light star shell fired 65m upwards would be seen miles away by a SAR crew on NVG; that's why they are effective. Yes, they would back down goggles if close up, but common sense prevails......

If you can hear a helo, and see a strobe it's probably a good idea to stop banging off star shells because they've found you.

[Al-bert]

Yes I have, no they don't. Goggles close down a/r and a request to cease firing works just fine.

[kaptain krunchie]

Thanks for your replies. My only concern is that the Solas Card No 2 (this has to be carried on a commercially used yacht) specifies the use of these flares and shells as landing signals inferring their use in the close vicinity of aircraft.

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