What distinctive feature is used to represent Safe Water Marks?

Safe Water Marks are characterized by a distinctive feature that enables mariners to recognize them clearly and understand their meaning. The defining characteristic of Safe Water Marks is their vertical stripes. These markers usually have a red and white vertical striped pattern, which serves to signify that the waters are safe and navigable, typically indicating the approach to a harbor or a fairway.

This pattern is essential as it provides visual clarity and helps in distinguishing these marks from other types of navigational aids, thereby enhancing safety for vessels navigating in the area. The use of vertical stripes is consistent with international maritime buoyage standards, which aims to standardize the signaling system for mariners worldwide.