What is a "safety buoy" used for in scuba diving?

A safety buoy is an essential piece of equipment in scuba diving primarily used to signal the diver's location to boats and surface support. When deployed, it creates a visual marker on the water's surface, indicating where divers are located beneath. This is particularly important for safety, as it alerts boaters to the presence of divers in the area, helping to prevent accidental collisions and ensuring that rescue operations can be conducted swiftly if necessary.

The use of a safety buoy enhances safety and communication while diving, allowing for the clear marking of the diver’s position. This is crucial in busy marine environments where visibility can be limited or where boat traffic might pose a risk. Properly utilizing a safety buoy contributes to the overall emergency preparedness and responsible diving practices.

The other options, such as navigation assistance, storing equipment, and regulating air supply, do not accurately describe the primary function of a safety buoy. While navigation tools and equipment management are important aspects of diving, they serve distinctly different purposes from that of a safety buoy in relation to diver safety and visibility on the surface.