What does a regulatory buoy with a diamond symbol indicate?

A regulatory buoy featuring a diamond symbol serves as an important navigational aid that signifies areas of danger. This symbol alerts boaters to potential hazards in the water, such as submerged rocks, shallow areas, or other obstacles that could pose risks to navigation and safety. Recognizing this buoy is crucial for maintaining safe boating practices, as it prompts operators to exercise caution and avoid these marked hazardous areas.

In the context of the other possible options, a buoy indicating safe water would typically be colored differently, perhaps signaling a clear pathway. A restricted area would involve specific regulations affecting the access or usage of that waterway, often denoted by different shapes or color codes. Buoys providing information usually contain other symbols or messages pertinent to navigators, rather than a warning about danger. Thus, understanding the meaning of the diamond symbol on regulatory buoys is essential for safe boating and navigating waterways effectively.