Pyrotechnic Marine Flare Infographic

Pyrotechnic Flares

An overview of additional important information

Disposal Facilities

There are only

permitted facilities in

the U.S. that accept and treat and dispose of explosive wastes streams, like pyrotechnic marine flares (two facilities treat in incinerators (UT and LA), the other does open burning (MO)).

Legal Consequences

Failure to have flares or having expired flares could result in a fine. The US Coast Guard may inspect boaters on a random basis.

$1,100

Chemical Health Effects

Click on the tabs below to learn more about common chemicals in found in pyrotechnic flares

PotassiumNitrate

Potassium Perchlorate

Strontium Compounds

Barium Compounds

Magnesium

Sulfer

Sources: California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways, National Library of Medicine, and additional listed sources.

Sulfur

Possible Health Effects

• Continued inhalation of sulfur fumes or dust can result in chronic respiratory issues and bronchitis.
• Skin contact may lead to dermatological problems or allergic reactions with prolonged exposure.

https://www.nj.gov/health/eoh/rtkweb/documents/fs/1757.pdf

Potassium Nitrate

Possible Health Effects

• Chronic exposure can result in respiratory irritation and coughing.
• Prolonged inhalation may lead to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in some individuals.

https://nj.gov/health/eoh/rtkweb/documents/fs/1574.pdf

Potassium Perchlorate

Possible Health Effects

• Prolonged exposure may disrupt thyroid function, potentially leading to hypothyroidism over time.
• Ingestion of perchlorate residues may contribute to long-term gastrointestinal discomfort.

https://www.nj.gov/health/eoh/rtkweb/documents/fs/1577.pdf

Magnesium

Possible Health Effects

• Chronic inhalation of magnesium particles may contribute to respiratory irritation and lung damage.
• Skin or eye contact can lead to chronic skin conditions, such as contact dermatitis.

https://nj.gov/health/eoh/rtkweb/documents/fs/1144.pdf

Barium Compounds

Possible Health Effects

• Prolonged exposure may lead to chronic respiratory issues and lung damage.
• Barium compounds have been associated with an increased risk of baritosis, a lung condition caused by inhalation of barium dust.

https://nj.gov/health/eoh/rtkweb/documents/fs/0180.pdf

Strontium Compounds

Possible Health Effects

• Long-term inhalation can contribute to respiratory problems, including chronic bronchitis.
• Skin contact may lead to dermatitis or skin allergies with repeated exposure.

https://wwwn.cdc.gov/TSP/PHS/PHS.aspx?phsid=654&toxid=120