Marine Rescue Chief commends NSW new disposal system of old flares

6:33 AM Wed 17 Mar 2010 GMT

'With this initiative the NSW Government has provided a really constructive solution to a problem that has affected the boating community for years,' said Acting Commissioner Glenn Finniss of Marine Rescue NSW. 'Flares are essential life-saving equipment that have proven their value time and time again. But when they reach their 'use-by' date, boat owners have had to face the dilemma of safety requirements to replace these with fresh flares and environmental requirements to dispose of the old ones, which are still flammable, in an appropriate manner.'

A/Commissioner Finniss was commenting on the announcement by Minister for Ports and Waterways Paul McLeay and government colleague, Matt Brown, Member for Kiama, that NSW Maritime offices will introduce a new, safe system for disposal of old out-of-date flares.

Disposal of these flares has been a constant issue for marine rescue volunteers as there has been no safe and secure means to do so. Once they may have been used in training exercises to show the public how to use them, but this practice is not approved because old flares can become dangerous. And old flares cannot simply be fired off as it is illegal to do so unless in an emergency.

Marine rescue volunteer units, Water Police and regular police, are all regularly asked by boaties how to get rid of these old flares, but until now there have been no adequate or legal solutions.

'The boating community will commend the Minister and his colleague for their efforts,' said Commission Finniss. 'This is a big step in the right direction for marine safety in NSW and it will be welcomed by all Marine Rescue members.'

Out-of-date flares can be left with NSW Maritime Coastal Service Centres. For locations see www.maritime.nsw.gov.au/locator.html

by Ken McManus

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Marine Rescue Chief commends NSW new disposal system of old flares

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