A stepped intensity electric road flare having a housing supporting a circuit. The circuit comprises an led light source, a power controller and a power supply. The power controller energizes the led light source with the power supply such that the led light source emits a varying light having at least one perceived fixed intensity within a range of emitted intensities. The road flare of the present invention provides a perceived steady light having a perceived fixed intensity during a portion or time zone of its waveform thereby communicating its exact location. In addition because its intensity changes during other portions or time zones of its waveform it also demands attention. The present invention is therefore an attention getting safety device communicating its exact location. The present invention both alerts drivers to a hazard and guides them past the hazard. In addition the emitted light of the present invention is of a reddish color and concentrated by an optic into a powerful light beam. An incendiary road flare also emits a powerful light having a reddish color and, at portions of its burn cycle, perceived as a steady light. An incendiary road flare also varies its intensity during its burn cycle. Therefore the electric road flare of the present invention emits light having characteristics similar to the characteristics of the light emitted by an incendiary road flare. The present invention therefore both alerts and guides drivers with an effectiveness similar to that of the incendiary road flare. As a result of the similar light emitting characteristics oncoming drivers give the present invention the respect, attention and reaction afforded the incendiary road flare enhancing its ability to guide drivers safely past hazardous zones.