NSW boaties urged to ditch dated flares

NSW Maritime is asking boaties across New South Wales to safely dispose of their expired marine flares as part of its annual statewide collection program.

The program launches Friday 7 November providing boaties with a safe, simple, and free way to dispose of expired or unwanted marine flares, helping protect our waterways and the environment.

It comes as the warmer months see increased traffic on NSW waterways. NSW Maritime is asking the boating community to remind themselves of important boat safety measures.

Before you head out on the water:

• Check your safety gear - including lifejackets, flares, and communication devices
• Bring any expired flares to a designated collection point

Disposing of flares properly reduces the risk of accidental discharge and ensures hazardous items are handled safely.

Executive Director for NSW Maritime Mark Hutchings warned boaties that carrying expired flares onboard is dangerous.

“Marine flares are pyrotechnical devices that create heat and smoke and can burn up to 1600 degrees celsius. It’s critical that all boaties check their flares before hitting the water, and if they’re expired, take them to our disposal centres,” said Mr Hutchings.

“The last thing we want to see this summer is flares accidentally igniting or malfunctioning because boaties aren’t checking their equipment is up to date. Our collection program offers a safe and responsible way for people to dispose of expired flares.

“If you find yourself in a situation on the water where you need to use a flare, you want to have peace of mind it’s going to work as it should. I encourage all boaties to put safety first this summer,” said Mr Hutchings.

The Expired Marine Flare Collection Program runs from 7 to 23 November 2025 at key boating locations across NSW.

For Collection Locations and Dates please visit here.

For more information about the collection program and safe disposal methods visit here.