How to Put Out a Road Flare

by Alex Wittle

Road flares are used in emergencies to signal distress or mark a hazard on the road. They're bright, visible, and easy to use. But once you’re done using them, you need to put them out the right way. Doing it wrong can lead to burns, fires, or even explosions. Here’s a guide to help you out.


Credit: Envato Elements/ romadope

 

What Is a Road Flare?

Before we get into the steps, let’s be clear on what we’re dealing with.

A road flare, also called a safety flare, is a handheld device that burns with a bright red light. It’s often used after car accidents, breakdowns, or to mark a dangerous area on the road. Most flares are made of magnesium or similar chemicals that burn at very high temperatures. That’s why handling them correctly is important.


Why You Need to Be Careful

You might think once a flare burns out, it’s safe. That’s not always true. Here’s why:


  • Flares can stay hot for up to 15 minutes after burning out.

  • A flare that’s still hot can start a fire if it touches dry grass, paper, or fuel.

  • Touching an active or hot flare can burn your skin instantly.


Tools You Might Need

Most road flares are designed to burn out on their own, but if you need to put one out early, it helps to have the right tools:


  • A metal bucket or can


  • Sand or dirt


  • A pair of thick gloves (fire-resistant if possible)


  • A shovel or metal scoop


  • Water (only for fully burned-out flares)


How to Put Out a Road Flare Safely

The safest way to put out a road flare is to let it burn out on its own. Most standard flares are designed to burn for about 15 to 30 minutes. If there’s no immediate danger (like dry grass nearby), just leave it in a safe spot on the ground and let it finish. If you need to put it early, follow these steps:


Step 1: Make Sure You're in a Safe Location

Before handling the flare, check your surroundings. Don’t attempt to put it out in a high-traffic area. Make sure you’re far away from flammable materials like dry grass or gasoline.

Step 2: Put On Protective Gloves

Flares burn at over 1,400°F. Never handle one with bare hands. Use thick, heat-resistant gloves before going near the flare.


Step 3: Smother the Flame

If the flare is still burning and you need to put it out early, smothering is the best way. Here are two common methods:


Option A: Use Sand or Dirt

  • Scoop sand or dirt with a shovel.

  • Slowly pour it over the burning end of the flare.

  • Make sure the entire flame is covered.

  • Wait a minute or two, then check if the flare has gone out.

Option B: Use a Metal Bucket with Sand

  • Fill a metal bucket with sand before you light the flare.

  • When you're done using the flare, drop the burning end into the sand.

  • The lack of oxygen will help put it out.


Step 4: Let It Cool Down

After the flame is out, the flare will still be hot. Don’t pick it up right away. Wait at least 15 minutes before handling. If you’re in a rush, you can use a metal tool (like tongs or pliers) to move it to a safe area.


Step 5: Dispose of It Safely

Once the flare is cool, it can be thrown away with other non-hazardous waste in most areas. But always check your local laws. Some places have rules about disposing of used or unused flares.

If you’re not sure, contact your local fire department or hazardous waste facility for advice.


What Not to Do

  • Don’t pour water on an active flare. It can react badly and cause flare debris to scatter or steam to blast back at you.

  • Don’t step on the flare. This might not put it out, and it can damage your shoes or burn you.

  • Don’t leave it on the road. Even if you think it’s out, it could still be a fire risk.


Tips for Using Road Flares Safely

  • Light the flare away from your body and face.


  • Place the flare on a flat, non-flammable surface.


  • Use only one flare per spot unless more visibility is needed.


  • Don’t use flares in areas with dry brush, fuel leaks, or wind.


Do Flares Go Out by Themselves?

Yes. Most road flares are made to burn for 15 to 30 minutes and then go out on their own. But just because the flame is gone doesn’t mean the danger is. They can stay hot and can still cause burns or fires if not handled properly.

The safest thing is to let the flare burn out fully and then let it cool for at least 15 minutes before moving it.


When Should You Put Out a Flare Early?

  • The danger has passed, and the flare is no longer needed.

  • The flare was lit by mistake.


  • You’re changing the location of your warning zone.


  • You’re in a fire-prone area and need to limit flare time.


Summary

Putting out a flare is pretty simple. Just make sure you’re wearing gloves, then cover the flame with sand or dirt to smother it. Let it cool completely before picking it up. Don’t ever pour water on a lit flare, and never walk away from one while it’s still hot.

Need a reliable flare kit? Check out Emergency USA’s Flare Kit. It’s compact, easy to use, and perfect for roadside or survival emergencies. Shop with us today.

 

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