US Coast Guard Auxiliary Penobscot Bay Flotilla will be partnering with the Maine State Fire Marshal's Office, Hamilton Marine, and US Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla Casco Bay, collecting expired marine flares for disposal. Collection stations will be staffed on Saturday, April 12, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Hamilton Marine's locations in Searsport, Rockland, and Portland.

Most watercraft operating on federally controlled waters must be equipped with Visual Distress Signals (VDS) during nighttime (sunset to sunrise) hours. Flares satisfy this requirement if they have not expired. Flares expire after 42 months and must be replaced to meet Coast Guard regulations. Expired flares may present a safety hazard as they burn at a very high temperature and they also present an environmental and health hazard as they contain a hazardous chemicals such as perchlorate.

"Bringing your expired flares to these collection locations ensures they are disposed of in a safe and environmentally responsible manner," said Paul Ljunggren, in a news release.

For questions or concerns regarding the boating safety requirements and the operation of your boat, request a free Vessel Safety Check by contacting Penobscot Bay Flotilla at auxflotilla0105@gmail.com.