Safety Notice: Expires Flare Disposal

In Canada, distributors and manufacturers of flares are responsible for accepting and disposing of expired flares. The term “distributor” does not apply to all retailers that sell flares as a product. Distributors are only responsible for accepting the brands of flares that they sell, although some do accept all brands for a fee. Flare disposal costs range from $4 to $10 per flare depending on the type. There are no flare disposal facilities in British Columbia, meaning all flares are shipped across the country for disposal in either Alberta or Quebec.

On Vancouver Island PACIFIC COAST LIFERAFT in Victoria accept all flares, THE HARBOUR CHANDLER in Nanaimo accepts CIL and Orion Flares only and ALL BAY MARINE in Sidney also accepts only CIL and Orion flares for disposal.

The Thetis Island Fire Dept. does not accept expired, damaged or unwanted marine flares for disposal.
Mariners should also check the Canadian Power Squadron website here: CPS | Safety Equipment and Flare Disposal Days - CPS (cps-ecp.ca). The Canadian Power Squadron plans flare collection events throughout the year. If people would like an event in their area they should contact their local squadron.