What should mariners monitor while using Aids to Navigation?

Monitoring changing environmental conditions is essential for mariners while using Aids to Navigation, as these conditions can significantly impact navigational safety and effectiveness. Environmental factors such as water currents, tides, and visibility can change frequently and can affect a vessel's maneuverability and safety. For instance, strong currents can impact a vessel's drift and position, while fog or heavy rain can reduce visibility, making it difficult to see navigation aids. Keeping an eye on these changing conditions allows mariners to make informed decisions and adjusts their navigation strategies accordingly.

Additionally, while it is important to be aware of local fishing activities, the traffic from other vessels, and weather forecasts, these should complement the primary focus on adapting to environmental changes, which can directly alter a navigation course or safety in real-time. Hence, emphasizing the need to monitor environmental shifts underlines the dynamic nature of marine navigation and the paramount importance of safety on the water.