Safety information Reading buoys and other markers The waters of the United States are marked for safe navigation by the lateral system of buoyage. Simply put, buoys and markers have an arrangement of shapes, colors, numbers and lights to show which side of the buoy a boater should pass on when navigat- ing in a particular direction. The markings on these buoys are oriented from the perspec- tive of being entered from seaward (the boat- er is going towards the port). This means that red buoys are passed on the starboard (right) side when proceeding from open wa- ter into port, and black buoys are to port (left) side.
When navigating out of port, your posi- tion with respect to the buoys should be re- versed; red buoys should be to port and black buoys to starboard. Many bodies of water used by boaters are entirely within the boundaries of a particular state. The Uniform State Waterway Marking System has been devised for these waters. This system uses buoys and signs with dis- tinctive shapes and colors to show regulato- ry or advisory information. These markers are white with black letters and orange boarders. They signify speed zones, restrict- ed areas, danger areas, and general infor- mation. Remember, markings may vary by geo- graphic location.
Always consult local boat- ing authorities before driving your boat in unfamiliar waters. 7