River Hamble Harbour Authority Flare Amnesty and Sea Safety Day

An 'amnesty' day for the disposal of out of date flares (Time Expired Pyrotechnics) is being held by the River Hamble Harbour Authority in conjunction with industry leaders Ramora UK, on Saturday 8th October, between 10am and 3pm.

The 'amnesty' event, which will be held in the Shore Road Car Park in Warsash (SO31 9FR), has been organised by Hampshire County Council's River Hamble Harbour Authority and will be an opportunity to safely dispose of out of date flares at a cost of just £1 per flare.

The event is open to all, including commercial operators, and there is no limit on the number of flares which can be handed in. However, those with more than 20 are requested to contact the River Hamble Harbour Authority Office (details below) to book an appointment.

There will be an opportunity to purchase replacement flares from Force 4 Chandlery and to discuss any sea safety and security concerns with Emergency Services and industry leader representatives, who will be there on the day. These include the River Hamble Harbour Authority, Hampshire Constabulary Marine Unit, RNLI, Hampshire Fire Brigade, SeaSafe Systems, Ramora UK and Hamble Rescue.

Chairman of the River Hamble Harbour Board, Councillor Keith Evans, said:
"Out of date flares are potentially hazardous and should be properly disposed of as soon as possible. This event will provide the perfect opportunity for people to dispose of them safely, as well as an opportunity to seek expert advice on sea safety. We hope that as many people as possible will support this initiative and amnesty opportunity."

David Welch MIExpE, MD of Ramora UK said:
"We are pleased to be able to put our special expertise to use in a practical way in providing a viable solution for what is a growing problem within the boating community."