Which type of flare is typically used for daytime distress signaling?

The use of orange smoke flares for daytime distress signaling is well-established due to their visibility against the backdrop of daylight. During the day, the bright color of the smoke contrasts sharply with the sky and ocean, making it easier to spot from a distance. Orange smoke creates a large, visible cloud that can be seen from afar, effectively drawing attention to the location of a vessel in distress.

In contrast, while red parachute flares and white hand flares are effective for nighttime use due to their light-producing qualities, they are not as visible during daylight. Black powder flares do not provide the same level of visibility because they are typically fired upward and do not produce a sustained signal. Therefore, orange smoke flares are the best choice for ensuring that the distress signal is noticed during daylight hours.