Roadside Flares



We can't predict the future, but when an emergency strikes, such as an automotive breakdown occurs, we can be prepared by having an emergency device to warn oncoming motorists that possible danger lurks just a head. Safety dictates this most basic premise, and the DOT dictates the placement of relfectors both ahead of and behind a commercial truck when it breakd down and is parked along the side of the road. But when a car breaks down and is stranded, or has an accident, there are no DOT requirements stating the driver has to warn other motorists. In this case, a bit of common sense is required to minimize the hazards of a potentially dangerou situation. This can be done with flares.



There are two types of flares, the new battery powered solid state LED flare, and the burning chemical flare that has been around for many decades. There are advantageous and disadvantageous to both.

The LED flare is comprised of solid state LEDs and batteries, and a switch to turn on the batteries. Sometimes, flashing circuitry is included to keep them turned off, but periodically turn them on for brief moments. This drastically improves battery life and the flashing catches the attention of anyone who can see them. The LEDs emit a very narrow spectrum of light in the red region of the color spectrum, so no filter has to be used to color the light. In addition to the flare function, a flashlight can be included, as well as any other battery powered device. One of the problems with this is that the operator is likely to use the flashlight over time, thus contributing to the discharge of the batteries, and a less than fully charged or even low battery condition, when the flare is needed most, could be the result. These flares are handy for storing in a glove compartment box or under the seat. They are not as bright as a chemical flare, and are more visible when the light from the LEDs are directed toward toward traffic, but they are convenient.

The burning chemical flare is comprised of a cardboard tube in which is placed sulfer and/or a mixture of other chemicals, such as alkali nitrate salts, alkali perchlorates, dust of such metals as magnesium or aluminum, and salts that will color the flames. Although the tube is round, a method of preventing it from rolling is sometimes provided, and a metal spike at one end has long been encorporated on by many manufacturers. A method of igniting the flare must be encorporated since sulfur can be very difficult to ignite. This is typically done with a solid hard composition of pyrotechnic ingredients that form a strike head at one end, similar o a strike anywhere matchhead, and the cap to the strike head contains a friction tape for striking. Adding certain ingredients can make the flare burn more brightly or with other colors.