SAFETY INFORMATION 1
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 navigating in a particular direction. The markings on these buoys are oriented from the perspective of being entered from seaward (the boater is going towards the harbor). Red buoys are passed on your starboard (right) side when proceeding from open water into port, and black buoys are to your port (left) side. An easy way to remember the meaning of the colors is the phrase “red right returning.” When navigating out of the harbor, your position with respect to the buoys should be reversed; 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 distinctive shapes and colors to show regulatory or advisory information. These markers are white with black letters and orange borders. They signify speed zones, restricted areas, danger areas, and general information.
Remember, markings may vary by geographic location. Always consult local boating authorities before riding your boat in unfamiliar waters.