What does a composite group flashing light typically indicate?

A composite group flashing light is used to indicate a lateral mark or buoy within maritime navigation. Lateral marks are essential for guiding vessels along safe paths in channels and other navigable waters. They serve to indicate the sides of navigable channels, allowing mariners to safely navigate around hazards and into safe waters.

When a light is described as a composite group flashing light, it means that it emits a pattern of flashes in a specific sequence or grouping. This helps differentiate it from other navigational aids, as each light pattern can signify different meanings based on the established navigation rules. By providing a uniform system of indications, mariners can quickly and effectively interpret where they need to go or whether they are navigating safely.

In contrast, the meanings of the other options revolve around different navigational scenarios. A special anchorage does not communicate a lateral channel, while a safe passage is not specifically signaled by a light, and hazards to navigation require other forms of marking, usually something other than a flashing light standard.