According to regulations, how long after manufacture do orange smoke signals expire?

Orange smoke signals are important safety devices used in maritime distress signaling. According to regulations, these devices have a shelf life of 42 months from the date of manufacture. This timeframe is set to ensure that the chemical composition of the smoke signal remains effective and reliable for signaling purposes.

The reason for the specified period is that the performance of pyrotechnic devices can degrade over time due to factors such as environmental conditions, humidity, and the natural aging of materials. Regularly checking the expiration date and ensuring the smoke signals are replaced as they reach the end of their service life is essential for maintaining safety at sea.

Understanding this timeframe is critical for all lifeboatmen and mariners, as expired signals may not function properly in an emergency, potentially endangering lives.