Odeo Flare LED Mk3

Odeo stands for Omni Directional Electrical Optical signal and is an innovative replacement and enhancement to traditional hand flares.

Traditional flares will illuminate for around 60 seconds before extinguishing: the Odeo Flare™ illuminates for around 6 hours at full illumination. Because no pyrotechnics are used, the Odeo Flare™ is totally safe when switched off, and because it uses battery power (high power Lithium or Alkaline cells), it can even be safely posted or carried in baggage on flights.

Whilst originally designed for marine use, its lightweight, safe performance means that it is incredibly useful for any outdoor activity. Mountaineering, skiing, expeditions etc. – any activity can benefit from the added safety and security of carrying a distress flare – without the unwanted dangers.

Regulations

The Odeo Flare™ is designed with consideration to SOLAS requirements, making it a genuine alternative to the pyrotechnic red hand held flare. The US Coast Guard is now leading the world in developing standards for electronic Visual Distress Signals (eVDS) as a replacement for the hand held pyrotechnic flare. The Odeo Flare™ also outputs an SOS signal during its flash pattern as described in Annex 4 to COLREGS, and is thus an internationally recognised distress signal.

Power Supply

The Odeo Flare uses either 3 x L91 Lithium batteries or 3 x AA Alkaline batteries. These batteries have the required shelf life and power capacity and will operate over an extended temperature range.

Technical Data Sheet

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the visible range?

In the UK, a moonlit trial undertaken by Yachting Monthly resulted in
detection at well in excess of 3 nm. More recently the Finnish
coastguard carried out tests where the Odeo FlareTM was visible from
their helicopter at 10 nm and easily visible from 6 nm. So, we say the
visible range is a minimum of 3 nautical miles, but much more in good
conditions.

What is the light output?

At full voltage the Odeo FlareTM has a peak light output of 100 cd.

How long does it last?

At ambient temperatures the supplied AA lithium batteries will last for 6 hours at full power. The Odeo FlareTM is supplied with Lithium Iron Disulphide batteries, which are readily available in supermarkets. These batteries have the required shelf life and power capacity and will operate over the temperature range -40°C to +60° C. It‘s always a good idea to carry a spare set - this will give you an extra 4-6 hours of continuous use. In an  emergency any AA batteries can be used but operating life will be degraded accordingly (the alternative AA Alkaline batteries will last for 4 hours at full power).

Is the unit waterproof?

It certainly is, we have tested it officially to IP68 which means it is totally protected against the ingress of solid objects and has been submerged in water up to 50 metres for 30 minutes. In addition to this we have tested the Odeo Flare in our pressure test chamber at 100 meters for one hour, which makes it ideal for use when diving.

If it gets damaged, how do I dispose of it?

There is no disposal hazard with the Odeo FlareTM. It can be disposed of in landfill as normal household waste as long as the batteries are separated and recycled. Alternatively you can return your old Odeo Flare to Daniamant in Portsmouth and under the WEEE scheme and will dispose of it for you.

Can I take it on an aircraft?

Yes, it is safe to carry, although the airline will probably want you to put it in your hold baggage.

Will others know it as a distress flare?

Yes. Apart from the flame-like flicker, it also makes the SOS signal as described in Annex 4 to COLREGS, and is thus an internationally recognised distress signal. It has similar visual characteristics to a conventional flare, and a piercing light - but, of course, it lasts considerably longer.

If I drop it overboard will it float?

Yes. The design team are yachtsmen and this was one of the first considerations, and, of course, it is sealed, so it will not be damaged.

Can I leave it on board over winter?

Yes, it is ok to store it on board, in a garage or shed for example, provided the temperature range is between -40° to +60°C. The Odeo FlareTM was designed to be stored on board a boat and is built from materials that will not corrode.

Is the Odeo Flare accepted under SOLAS regulations as an alternative
to the hand held flare?

Not yet. However, the Odeo FlareTM makes a recognised distress signal as described in Annex 4 to the International Rules for the Prevention of Collisions At Sea (COLREGS). Until SOLAS rules are change, coded and commercial vessels must still carry pyrotechnic flares. Daniamant are actively involved in the current USCG trails on drafting a specification for LED flares.

Does it have an expiry date?

There is no expiry date on the unit. The Odeo FlareTM is supplied with batteries that have a long shelf life. The batteries should be regularly changed with the correct replacements. The flare should be carefully stored and regularly checked for any damage. The product has a two year warranty, but should offer many years of use if maintained and stored correctly.