Coast Guard Adopts Electronic Flares Over Pyrotechnics
The US Coast Guard now uses electronic visual distress signals on its boats, while manufacturers push for a global standard recognized by the International Maritime Organization.
Updated on Nov. 3, 2026 in Emergency Response
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The US Coast Guard replaced traditional MK-124 pyrotechnic distress signals with approved electronic visual distress signaling devices (eVDSDs) under directive ALCOAST 234/25, which took effect in April. ACR Electronics and Ocean Signal, which manufacture the devices, are calling for a global standard that could be adopted by the International Maritime Organization.
Why it matters
International standards still require pyrotechnic flares aboard many commercial vessels and leisure boats 13.7 meters and longer, so the change does not yet apply across the global fleet. The shift reflects a push for distress signals that are more reliably detectable and safer to carry.
The US Coast Guard directive ALCOAST 234/25 replaced MK-124 pyrotechnic signals with approved eVDSDs, while international standards still require pyrotechnic flares aboard many vessels above 13.7 meters. Whether the IMO will amend the flares requirement remains unresolved, as no proposals have been submitted.
The players
US Coast Guard
The United States federal maritime law enforcement and rescue service, which adopted electronic distress signals over pyrotechnic flares on its boats.
International Maritime Organization
The United Nations specialized agency that sets global shipping safety standards, including the SOLAS requirements for pyrotechnic flares on vessels.
ACR Electronics
A manufacturer of emergency locator and distress signaling equipment that is calling for a global standard for electronic visual distress signals.
Ocean Signal
A marine safety equipment manufacturer that produces electronic visual distress signaling devices and is calling for a global standard for them.
British Marine
The trade association for the UK marine industry, which said it would contribute expertise to developing distress signal standards.
The details
Reasons cited for the move include brighter, more consistent light output for increased visibility, plus extended operational life and elimination of burn, misfire, and accidental ignition hazards. British Marine said UK guidance MIN 542 reflects the need for reliably detectable distress signals and that it would contribute industry expertise to standards through ISO or at national level.
Timeline
April: US Coast Guard ALCOAST 234/25 directive took effect.
June 2025: IMO Maritime Safety Committee instructed its Sub-Committee on Ship Systems and Equipment to review testing requirements for pyrotechnic distress signals.
Big Picture
The US Coast Guard's move departs from the pyrotechnic flare requirement set by IMO SOLAS rules, which still mandate flares aboard many commercial vessels and leisure boats above 13.7 meters. Manufacturers ACR Electronics and Ocean Signal are now pushing the IMO to recognize electronic devices in a global standard.
Boaters should check whether their vessel's length and jurisdiction require pyrotechnic flares, since electronic devices are not yet accepted under international standards for many vessels. Those who carry electronic signals should confirm they are approved by their national maritime authority before relying on them.
The takeaway
Electronic distress signals offer brighter, longer-lasting visibility and remove burn and misfire risks, but global adoption depends on the IMO updating its rules. Until then, carrying approved signals that match your vessel's requirements remains the safest choice.
Further reading
For more on how maritime rescue signals are used in practice, see Emergency Response.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Practical Boat Owner.
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