Roads and Maritime Services has launched a program to help boaters dispose of expired flares, with mobile collections set up along the NSW coastline until the end of the boating season in April. A Roads and Maritime spokesperson said the flare collection program started last weekend to allow flares to be disposed of safely and conveniently. “This important initiative allows boaters to dispose of old flares responsibly and promotes a culture of safer boating,” the spokesperson said. “Marine flares can signal someone is in trouble and help provide a location for aircraft or vessels engaged in a search and rescue. “Generally, a minimum of two red hand flares and two orange smoke flares are required on all vessels operating in open waters. “Most flares have a use-by date of three years and must be replaced before the expiry date. “Penalties apply for not carrying current flares on a vessel so it is vital boat owners regularly check and replace flares. “By holding collection days Roads and Maritime hopes to also remind boaters to check their safety equipment regularly. “From January until April boaters can take old flares to various sites along the coast. From there the flares will be disposed of by a Roads and Maritime approved contractor.” The spokesperson said the expired flare collection program complements other boating safety initiatives including the Old4New lifejackets program. “Where possible, flare collection days will be held in conjunction with visits from the Old4New van. Boaters will be able to trade-in their old lifejackets for a more modern, slim-fitting model which will be available from the Old4New van.” For more information on flare disposal options visit www.rms.nsw.gov.au/maritime and search for ‘flare’.