Lights & Emergency Flares is a subcategory of Safety & Rescue. Here you will find safety-related life jacket lights, emergency flares (e.g., SOLAS/IMO), signal lights, and flashlights, as well as accessories—to improve the visibility of people in the water, for working on board in the dark, and as an essential component of emergency equipment.
Our product range (subject to availability) includes brands such as Besto, Talamex, Plastimo, and L’Ocean, as well as selected emergency flare systems (e.g., Daniamant). Brand names remain unchanged—this is important for certifications (e.g., SOLAS/IMO), proper attachment to life jackets, as well as spare parts and compatible accessories.
In line with the broader category of Safety & Rescue, the following applies: A good light not only helps you “see,” but above all, helps you be seen. For life jackets and MOB situations, reliability, water resistance, secure attachment, and long runtime are key. For onboard lights, additional considerations include ease of use with gloves, a rugged housing, and a practical beam pattern.
Examples from the product range: Besto SOLAS life jacket light / emergency strobe (e.g., UML); Daniamant DAN SOLAS/IMO emergency strobe W4-A / W3; L’Ocean LED flashlight (e.g., “Carré”).
A flashlight or deck lamp is intended for work on deck, in the engine room, or when docking. A life jacket light or emergency strobe is crucial in an emergency (MOB) so that people in the water can be found more quickly—ideally water-activated and highly visible. For professional requirements or specific equipment standards, a SOLAS/IMO-approved emergency strobe may be required or advisable. The key factors are your usage profile (recreational/charter/professional) and the equipment regulations on board.
Key features include water activation (automatic), high visibility (ideally 360° or very wide beam), long runtime, a robust, waterproof housing, and secure attachment to the life jacket. For SOLAS/IMO models, the relevant markings and approvals are a key consideration.
It is crucial that the light can be securely attached to your life jacket (strap/belt/clip) and does not interfere when worn. Also, pay attention to model approvals (if specified) and whether the battery/light source is replaceable, as well as the applicable service intervals. For SOLAS/IMO emergency beacons, the correct design (e.g., mounting and certification) is particularly important.
Install the light so that it is clearly visible in the water (usually on the upper shoulder or chest area) and is not obscured by a spray hood, straps, or pockets. Secure it firmly, but without damaging the life jacket. Then check once: it fits securely, does not interfere when putting on or wearing the jacket, and the activation (switch/automatic) is clear. If you are unsure, consult the life jacket or light instructions.
After contact with saltwater, rinse with fresh water, let dry, and keep contacts clean. For emergency flares/life jacket lights: regularly inspect for cracks, corrosion, and status indicators. Store in a dry place (e.g., emergency kit/grab bag) and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. During winter storage, check and document battery status and replacement dates.
At least seasonally (before the first trip) and additionally after heavy use: check the housing, mounting, switch/automatic mechanism, and status indicator. Replacement should follow the manufacturer’s instructions (battery/unit, expiration date for certain systems). For safety-critical parts, the rule is: better to replace them in time than risk failure in an emergency.
Typical causes include dead or expired batteries, corrosion on contacts, damaged housings, incorrect installation (concealed), or an unsuitable protection class (not truly waterproof). Regular inspection, proper mounting, and appropriate storage prevent most failures.