bouées

A bouée is a floating device used for various purposes on water. The term is derived from the French word for buoy. Bouées can be made from a range of materials, including plastic, foam, and rubber, and come in many shapes and sizes depending on their intended function.

One common use of bouées is for marking navigable channels in waterways. These navigational buoys help guide vessels and indicate safe passages, often colored and numbered according to international standards. They can also be used to mark hazards such as rocks, wrecks, or submerged obstacles, warning sailors of potential dangers.

In recreational contexts, bouées are frequently employed as safety equipment. They can serve as flotation devices for swimmers, offering a stable point of rest or assistance. Inflatable bouées are also popular for watersports like tubing or wakeboarding, providing riders with something to hold onto. Amusement park attractions and swimming pool areas often utilize bouées as fun and safe flotation aids for children and adults.

Beyond navigation and safety, bouées can also be used for scientific purposes, such as anchoring monitoring equipment in the water. They may also be used in competitive aquatic events to delineate race courses or mark specific points. The versatility of bouées makes them a common sight on lakes, rivers, and oceans worldwide.