New Jersey Boating Certification Practice Test

What is the main purpose of the lateral system of red and green buoys or markers?

1. To signal fishing areas

2. To indicate the edge of safe waters

3. To mark emergency zones

4. To provide directions to ports

The correct answer is: To indicate the edge of safe waters

The main purpose of the lateral system of red and green buoys or markers is to indicate the edge of safe waters. This system is designed to help boaters determine where navigable channels are located and where it is safe to travel. In this system, red buoys generally mark the right side of the channel when entering from the sea, while green buoys mark the left side. This color-coding provides a visual reference that guides mariners safely through waterways, ensuring they stay within the designated channels and avoiding shallow areas or obstacles that could be dangerous. Understanding this system is crucial for navigation and safety on the water, as it helps prevent accidents and ensures that boaters can safely traverse waterways without running aground. Other options, while they may serve important functions, do not pertain directly to the primary role of the lateral buoy system in navigation.