What does a yellow buoy typically indicate?

A yellow buoy typically indicates a caution area, such as shallow waters. These buoys serve to alert boaters to potential hazards in the water that could pose risks to navigation and safety. The yellow color is a universally recognized signal to exercise caution, which can include areas with underwater obstructions, changing water depths, or even the presence of wildlife.

The choice aligns with navigational aids that inform mariners to proceed carefully, ensuring they maintain a safe distance from potential dangers that may not be immediately visible. Understanding buoy color codes is fundamental for safe boating practices, helping to navigate safely through waters that could pose risks.

While other buoy colors and shapes have different meanings—such as red buoys indicating the edge of navigational channels—to properly operate a vessel, recognizing yellow buoys as cautionary markers is essential for avoiding accidents and ensuring safety on the water.