What actions should a boat operator take when they see a "diver down" flag?

When a boat operator sees a "diver down" flag, it signals that there are divers in the water nearby, and it is crucial to prioritize their safety. The appropriate action is to slow down and maintain a safe distance from the flag, as this helps prevent accidents and ensures that the divers can safely surface without the risk of being struck by a boat.

Slowing down minimizes the wake created by the boat, which can be hazardous to divers, and maintaining a safe distance allows the operator to avoid disrupting the area where divers are operating. This is not only a matter of safety but also of adhering to maritime laws that protect divers. It is important to always remain vigilant and respectful of such signals when navigating near areas where divers are present.

The other choices may place divers at risk, either by traveling at unsafe speeds or disregarding the flag entirely, which could lead to dangerous situations.