Diving - Buoy & Flag
What does the flags mean in diving?
A diving flag is displayed on the water to alert others that there is a diver below the surface.
As a boat operator, what actions should you take when you spot a diving flag?
You may come across boats engaged in diving operations almost anywhere, so keep a sharp lookout and scan the water ahead of you. Keep well clear of the diving vessel.
Maintain a distance of at least 300 feet (100 m) from diver down flags and buoys in open water and at least 100 feet (30m) in inlets or navigation channels.
Also watch carefully for bubbles breaking the surface. It could indicate that a diver has strayed from the area and may not be near the dive boat.
What are the 2 types of diver down flags?
The most commonly used of the two is the diver down flag, which is a red flag with a white diagonal stripe.
The code flag alfa/alpha, which is white and blue, is used to signal that the vessel has a diver down and other vessels should keep well clear at slow speed
Do all dive boats need a diver down flag?
It is essential to display diving flags whenever engaging in diving activities.
