UN 0419 — Flares, surface
Placard: Explosive 1.3G. ERG Guide 112. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 0419 is Flares, surface, a Class 1 pyrotechnic flare entry assigned to ERG Guide 112. It is mainly a fire and deflagration hazard with intense heat, smoke and possible fragment projection.
Hazard overview: UN 0419 flares may burn intensely, produce bright flame and heat, rupture casings and scatter burning fragments. Metal-fuel or oxidizer compositions can make suppression difficult, so responders should avoid close approach and rely on incident command direction.
Response guidance: For a UN 0419 flare incident, responders should confirm the division and product using markings, shipping papers and ERG Guide 112. Isolate the area, stay upwind, avoid smoke and radiant heat, and protect exposures only from a safe distance under local SOP.
Firefighter training notes: Training should emphasize pyrotechnic, propellant or nitrocellulose fire behavior, smoke hazards, fragment potential and the risk of escalating nearby explosive articles. Common errors include approaching through smoke, disturbing damaged packages and failing to expand isolation when fire spreads.
Regulatory context: Flares, surface is regulated as a Class 1 explosive hazardous material. Transportation, storage, quantity limits, fire code controls and reporting requirements may vary by jurisdiction. Responders should verify current requirements through shipping papers, SDS or product documents and applicable DOT, ATF, OSHA, NFPA, military, state or local authority guidance.
Storage & handling: Flares, surface should be stored only in approved packaging, magazines or authorized explosive storage areas, separated from ignition sources, incompatible materials and unauthorized access. Packages should be protected from heat, impact, friction, moisture where relevant and physical damage according to product documentation and applicable explosive storage regulations.
UN 0419 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 0419
- Fire and deflagration hazard; flares may burn with intense heat, bright light and localized fragment projection.
- Pyrotechnic compositions may contain oxidizers and metal fuels that can behave unpredictably in fire.
- Not normally a mass explosion hazard when transported as classified, but bulk fire can escalate rapidly.
- Smoke may contain irritating or toxic combustion products.
- Heated casings may rupture or scatter burning fragments.
- Large quantities may require expanded isolation and remote operations.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Cylindrical pyrotechnic devices containing combustible compositions, oxidizers, and binding agents. Typically red or orange colored casing. Solid at room temperature.
| Also known as | Surface flaresMarine distress flaresRoad flaresSignal flaresPyrotechnic flares |
| Appearance | Cylindrical pyrotechnic devices containing combustible compositions, oxidizers, and binding agents. Typically red or orange colored casing. Solid at room temperature. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (pyrotechnic device) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (pyrotechnic composition) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid pyrotechnic) |
| Water Reactivity | May contain water-reactive components; water generally not recommended for extinguishment |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 0419
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Responders should use structural firefighting gear with SCBA for smoke or fire exposure and maintain standoff distance from burning articles or packages. PPE does not replace evacuation if additional explosives or large quantities are involved.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 0419 Incident
- CALL 911. Then call the emergency response telephone number on the shipping paper, if available.
- Keep unauthorized personnel away and deny entry.
- Stage upwind and avoid smoke from burning pyrotechnic, propellant or explosive material.
- Eliminate ignition sources if it is safe to do so.
- Isolate the area and check for nearby explosives, ammunition, propellants or pyrotechnic articles.
- Protect exposures only from a safe distance if directed by incident command.
- Use ERG Guide 112, shipping papers and incident command to set isolation and evacuation distances.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 0419 — Flares, surfaceUse for: Quick radio or face-to-face size-up. Short, structured, field-ready.
Use for: Incident command briefing, staging area whiteboard, or pre-entry team brief.
Use for: Quick text to command or incoming units. Fits in a single SMS.