What kind of flares should an approved raft contain?

An approved raft is required to carry hand-held red flares because these are considered the standard signaling devices for distress situations at sea. Hand-held red flares are visible from a significant distance and produce a bright red light, making them effective for attracting attention in emergency scenarios. The use of red color signifies distress and is universally recognized, enhancing the chances of rescue.

While green flares, smoke flares, and aerial flares can serve specific purposes in various situations, they are not the type designated for inclusion in an approved life raft. For instance, green flares may indicate safe conditions in certain contexts, smoke flares are useful for signaling during daylight but not effective at night, and aerial flares, while they can be seen from afar, are typically not included in the standard equipment for life rafts. Therefore, the requirement for hand-held red flares aligns with the emergency signaling protocols established for safety at sea.