Which marking identifies a partly submerged object being towed, as used in inland rules?

• A. A diamond shape on the towed object.
• B. A red flag.
• C. A circular buoy.
• D. A square white flag.

Answer: (A)

Day shapes on inland waterways tell other vessels what situation is ahead. A diamond shape on the object that’s being towed is the standard mark used to indicate a partly submerged object is towed. This specific cue alerts nearby boats that there is a hazard that isn’t fully visible and that it is attached to a towing vessel, so extra room and caution are wise. The other visuals listed don’t carry this exact meaning: a red flag is a general warning signal in different contexts, a circular buoy is a navigational aid, and a square white flag isn’t the inland marking for a partly submerged towed object.