Police are advising residents of Urenui, near New Plymouth, to expect to see flares early Saturday evening.

Up to 35 mixed flares will be set off at Urenui Domain between 5pm and 7pm Saturday 20 October as part of a training exercise.

The flares will predominately be red handheld flares, however red and white parachute flares and orange smoke flares will also be tested.

Anyone who witnesses flares in the vicinity of Urenui Domain during this time should not be alarmed.

Taranaki Search and Rescue Constable Andrew Wong Too says the exercise is a timely reminder for boaties to check the condition of their vessel and the safety equipment on board prior to use this summer.

“While distress flares can be used in an emergency, Police and Coastguard always recommend taking two separate forms of waterproof communication when heading out on the water.”

ENDS

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