What is a life buoy?

A life buoy is specifically designed as a flotation ring used for rescuing individuals from the water. It is a crucial piece of safety equipment on boats and ships, providing a means of quick retrieval for someone who has fallen overboard or is in distress. The buoy typically has bright colors to enhance visibility and is usually equipped with a rope for easier recovery by rescuers. Recognizing its primary purpose emphasizes the importance of safety measures at sea and the role of effective rescue equipment in preventing drowning incidents.

The other options, while they reference flotation devices, do not accurately define a life buoy's purpose or functionality. For instance, flotation devices for water skiing are meant for recreational activities, while life jackets serve a different role by providing personal buoyancy to individuals. A safety tool for fishing boats does not encompass the specific design and function of a life buoy, which is purely aimed at rescue operations.