Safety equipment is most useful when you know it is ready to work. One practical advantage of a rechargeable electronic visual signal is that its basic operation can be checked before you leave harbour.
Emergency equipment can spend months untouched. Batteries discharge, connectors corrode and equipment can be damaged during storage. A simple functional check gives the skipper an opportunity to discover a problem while still alongside rather than during an emergency.
A reusable electronic visual signal can be activated briefly to confirm that the light source, controls and power system respond. If the device is rechargeable, the battery can then be returned to full charge before the voyage.
This is fundamentally different from a pyrotechnic flare. A conventional flare is a single-use device, so activating it to prove it works consumes the item.
Seeing the LEDs illuminate does not guarantee that every aspect of the unit is perfect. A sensible check also includes the housing, seals, charging state, controls, lanyard and any flotation or insulation accessories. Manufacturer instructions should always take priority.
Rechargeable equipment needs a charging routine. The unit should be stored at an appropriate state of charge and checked at suitable intervals. If the battery chemistry has a defined service life, that should be included in the maintenance plan.
There is another benefit. Crew can learn how the equipment operates before they need it. In an emergency, simple and familiar controls reduce hesitation and the likelihood of using the device incorrectly.
UltraFlare Daylight is designed with pre-deployment testing in mind. For more on the optical system and construction, visit the Technology page or read LED flares vs pyrotechnic flares.