The Rescue Laser Flare is aimed by bracketing the target rescuer in the 'V' of two fingers and playing the beam slowly back and forth within the 'V.' It's a simple and trustworthy technique, but requires two hands. The manufacturer is working on other sighting options.

by Douglas S. Ritter

The brilliant light from a laser would seem to be a natural for distress signaling, but it's only recently that a product has become available that takes advantage of a laser's unique capabilities. When we first saw Greatland Laser's prototype for the "Rescue Laser Flare" back in 1999 we were impressed with the concept. It seemed to have strong potential as a nighttime signaling device. In 2001 they entered limited production and the device has undergone a series of improvements over the past three years. Our latest series of tests suggest it's ready for prime time. …