š Key Concepts
ā¢ This is a cardinal mark in the IALA buoyage system, not a lateral mark
ā¢ The light rhythm shown is VQ (3) 5s ā very quick flashes in groups of 3 every 5 seconds
ā¢ On cardinal buoys, the number of flashes (or flash pattern) tells you which quadrant (N, E, S, W) is safe water
š Think About
ā¢ Look at the group of 3 very quick flashes ā which cardinal direction is represented by 3 flashes?
ā¢ Once you know the cardinal direction of the buoy, ask: "Where is the safe water in relation to the buoy ā is the danger on that side, or the opposite side?"
ā¢ Imagine your vessel and the buoy on a chart: if it is that type of cardinal mark, on which side of the buoy must the ship stay to remain in safe water?
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Before You Answer
ā¢ Match VQ (3) 5s correctly to one specific type of cardinal mark (N, E, S, or W)
ā¢ Recall that for a cardinal mark, safe water lies on the named side of the buoy (e.g., for an East cardinal, safe water is to the east of the buoy)
ā¢ Before choosing, be sure you are not confusing quick/very quick cardinal light groups with isolated danger or special marks, which are different patterns