What is the function of a "man overboard" marker?

The function of a "man overboard" marker is to visually indicate the location of a person in the water for other crew members to locate. When a crew member falls overboard, it is critical for the vessel and its crew to quickly pinpoint the location of the individual in order to execute a rescue operation efficiently.

The visual marker, often a buoy or a specific flag, serves as a reference point for all operating vessels and crew members, ensuring they can navigate toward the person and enact rescue protocols. This immediate visual cue is essential, especially in emergency situations where time is of the essence to prevent harm to the person in the water.

The other options, while relevant in their contexts, do not align with the primary purpose of a "man overboard" marker. For example, while indicating current direction or signaling other vessels can be important navigational aids, they are not the main objectives of marking a "man overboard" situation. Similarly, marking for safe anchorage is a distinct function that does not pertain to the immediate emergency response needed in a man overboard scenario.