Published on Thursday, 18 April 2019 at 12:10:24 PM
Residents are reminded of the importance of safely disposing of marine flares at South Hedland landfill, Hedland’s only safe disposal venue for flares.
Flare disposal is no longer available at the Volunteer Marine Rescue Service on McKay Street.
Marine flares are an essential lifesaving tool which must be carried by vessels operating outside protected waters in WA.
However, due to the combustion of hot pyrotechnic material, can be dangerous to bystanders when used illegally or improperly.
Mayor Camilo Blanco urged residents to check both their flare expiry date, and ensure they were disposed of safely.
“Flares are vital in mitigating risk for Hedland’s seafarers, however, people really need to take care when disposing of them.
“Flares should not be simply dropped off on the side of the road, or even put in your regular kerbside bin: they need to be disposed of at the South Hedland Landfill.
“I also encourage seafarers to check the expiry date on their flares, as they must be maintained in a serviceable condition at all times.
“This is a State Government requirement. Penalties apply for the improper use of flares.”
South Hedland Landfill is open weekdays 7.30am to 4pm, Saturday 8am to 4pm and closed Sunday.
Please click here to access the WA Department of Transport’s guidelines on flares.
Click here to access the printable fact sheet on safe flare disposal.
For media information:
Laura Hawes
Manager Marketing Communication and Events
(08) 9158 9365 | lhawes@porthedland.wa.gov.au
Back to All News