What is the required flag for vessels towing individuals on water skis?

The required flag for vessels towing individuals on water skis is a bright orange "skier down" flag. This flag serves an important safety purpose by alerting other boaters to the presence of a person in the water who may be in need of assistance or is actively being towed. The bright orange color increases visibility, making it easy for nearby vessels to recognize the situation and take appropriate action to avoid accidents.

Using a flag that stands out is crucial in a busy boating environment to ensure that other boaters maintain a safe distance from the area where the skier may fall or be located. This enhances overall safety on the water, providing a clear signal that assists in the communication of potential hazards. The specific bright orange color is designated in many boating regulations to maintain consistency and ensure that all boaters recognize the signal effectively, enhancing safety for everyone involved in water activities.