What must be stored properly to prevent accidents when using pyrotechnic VDSs?

To prevent accidents when using pyrotechnic Visual Distress Signals (VDSs), it is crucial to properly store pyrotechnic signals themselves. These signals are designed to be essential safety devices that assist in alerting others during emergencies on the water, but they are also inherently hazardous due to their flammable and explosive components.

Proper storage means keeping them in a cool, dry place away from any potential sources of ignition or pressure changes that could cause them to malfunction. This ensures that they remain functional and safe to use when necessary. Inadequate storage could lead to unintentional discharge, degrade the materials, or create dangerous situations where the signals cannot be deployed at a critical moment.

The other options, though important in their own contexts, do not directly pertain to the specific risks associated with pyrotechnic VDSs. Life jackets are crucial for personal safety but do not involve the same immediate hazards as pyrotechnic devices. Flammable liquids, while inherently dangerous, are not the primary concern regarding the storage and use of VDSs. High-efficiency batteries might be relevant for other electronic safety devices, but they do not apply to the storage needs of pyrotechnic signals. Thus, understanding the correct storage protocols for pyrotechnic