There are multiple Coast Guard certified E-Flare options that you can use to replace traditional flares. When an E-Flare flashes the S-O-S signal, it is at least 5 times brighter than a traditional flare and an E-Flare light lasts a lot longer.

A traditional flare lasts only 2 minutes while an E-Flare is required to continue flashing for at least 2 hours with many lasting up to 20 hours. For daytime use, all E-Flares come with a distress flag.  From a cost perspective, traditional flares cost $30-50, but need to be replaced when they expire 42 months after manufacturing.  A basic E-Flare costs $65 to $100 with only batteries needing to be replaced periodically.

 Even if you still choose to carry traditional flares, adding an E-Flare to your boat's safety kit is a smart idea. 

For more flare education go to www.boatingsafety.com/FlareEducation