Yellow Buoy Meaning

When people go out on an inflatable paddleboard, boat, or kayak, they usually go out there to have a good time, hang out with friends, and get a workout in. At the same time, it is essential for everyone to make sure they place safety first. This is why are  yellow buoys are put out there. Buoys are meant to communicate messages from a distance. 

What Are Yellow Buoys?

They do this via their color. Everyone needs to understand what the colors mean so they can respond as quickly and as accurately as possible. One of the most common buoys that people might spot is a yellow buoy. What does this mean? How can a yellow Aqua Lantern buoy from Dunn Rite Pool Products be helpful?

Yellow Buoys for Paddleboard Racing

For those racing on inflatable paddleboards, a yellow buoy means something very specific: a yellow buoy indicates a left-hand turn. People need to stay within the channel as they approach the yellow buoy. Then, they need to turn left to stay on course. In contrast, people might also spot a red buoy, which indicates a right-hand turn. It is important to note that a yellow buoy only indicates a left-hand turn when someone is racing.

Yellow Buoys Indicate Channels

For those who are paddling or boating on intercoastal waterways, yellow buoys are used to designate a channel. When someone sees a yellow square, this is a sign that they need to keep the buoy to the port side. On the other hand, yellow triangles should stay to the starboard side of the boater.

So, what does this mean for boaters? When people on boats or ships face the boat’s front, port is to the boat’s right side, and the starboard side is to the left. The yellow squares need to stay to the right of the boater as he or she is moving. Then, the yellow triangles need to remain to the boater’s left as he or she is moving. The goal of these buoys is to help people stay in the channel when they are boating. Furthermore, if there are yellow buoys present, this could also signify that there are other boats in the area. Therefore, everyone needs to make sure they respond appropriately to yellow squares and yellow triangles.

Yellow Buoys Are Sources of Information

A yellow buoy also provides information that people need to heed. Whether someone is on a boat or a paddleboard, there is usually a warning or an announcement that is being communicated by a yellow buoy. One of the yellow buoy’s most common uses is to prevent boats and paddle boarders from entering a noxious weed area. Those who ignore yellow buoys could find themselves in a serious safety situation.

Text Large Enough to Read

Ideally, yellow buoys are going to have text that is large enough to read from a distance. If the text is too small, it is a good idea for people to get close enough to the buoy to read the information without entering the area. There could be rules in play that prevent people from entering that specific location.

Hazards or Debris

There could also be information on yellow buoys related to hazards or debris that are in the area. Often, yellow buoys are deployed for a short period of time until the hazard is cleaned up. Then, yellow hazard buoys are usually removed. Therefore, even if someone is familiar with the area, a yellow buoy could indicate something new.

Get Yellow Buoys from the Experts

If you are looking to have a great time, then it is essential to place safety first. At Dunn-Rite Pool Products, we are here to help you. We have a wide variety of high-quality  inflatable paddleboards, buoys, and other equipment that comes in all shapes and sizes. Therefore, take a look at our options today! Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you with your aquatic safety needs! Our buoys are sure to stand up to routine wear and tear on the open water! If you're interested in learning more about red buoys and green buoys check out our blog.

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