PADI Divemaster Certification Practice Exam

What is the primary purpose of surface marker buoys?

1. To attract attention

2. To display dive flags and warn boat traffic

3. To track divers underwater

4. To signal the end of a dive

The correct answer is: To display dive flags and warn boat traffic

The primary purpose of surface marker buoys is to display dive flags and warn boat traffic. This is crucial for safety during diving activities, as the buoys signal to boats and other watercraft that divers are present in the area. The presence of a dive flag indicates that there are divers below the surface, which helps prevent accidents and enhances the safety of the diving operation. Using surface marker buoys assists in creating visibility for divers, especially in busy waters where boat traffic is common. It ensures that vessels stay a safe distance away from the divers, reducing the risk of collisions and ensuring a safer diving environment. This function also aids in guiding boaters, reminding them to be cautious in areas where divers are submerged. The other options, while they may involve aspects of diving safety or communication, do not encapsulate the primary purpose of surface marker buoys in relation to dive flags and warning boat traffic.