Beaches are places where the vast majority of people like to go, to enjoy the sand, sea and sun in different ways, being a fun place to relax or perhaps get adrenaline if you practice some water sport. .
However, beaches, depending on several factors, can become dangerous, therefore, One way to communicate danger is with colored flags, which each one has a different meaning that is appropriate to know.
Yellow flag
The yellow flag means that the surf presents a medium danger. This could mean it’s a rough day in the surf, there are big waves, or there may be a small rip current.
Yellow flags are generally the most common type of flag seen. It is recommended to take precautions before swimming, such as wearing a life jacket or floaties at least.
Red flag
A red flag indicates that the surf is extremely dangerous. This could be due to the presence of large waves, strong currents or other conditions.
Ultimately, this flag indicates that you should only swim at your own risk, even so, exercise extreme caution when doing so despite being a good swimmer.
Green flag
The green flag indicates the presence of ideal and calm surf conditions, making it a pleasant and safe day to enjoy on the beach.
As long as there are no other flags, this means it is safe to use surfboards, bodyboards or other water sports.
purple flag
You may not have heard of a purple flag before. This flag means that marine pests are present.
A marine pest can be a variety of beings, some that come to mind are algae, jellyfish or even sharks.
Red flag on red flag
A red flag on another of the same color describes an extremely high danger, which is why they are waters that are closed to all types of the public.
This type of flag is reserved for some of the most dangerous surf conditions. What it indicates is not to enter the water under any circumstances.
Red flag on yellow
A red on yellow flag means a recommended swimming area that has lifeguard supervision.
If available at your beach, it is always recommended to swim within the red on yellow flag areas for added safety.
Black and white flag
A black and white area is designated for boats, rather than swimming, so swimming should not be done in boat areas if possible.
Yellow flag with black ball
If you see a yellow flag with a black ball or circle in the middle, it means that the use of watercraft, such as boats or motorboats, is prohibited.
red and white flag
The flag, quartered red and white, indicates an emergency evacuation. There can be a variety of reasons for this, from sharks in the water to a possible hurricane.
Orange flag or sock
An orange windsock indicates the presence of strong or offshore winds. If there is an orange wind sock or flag on your beach, avoid using any type of inflatable or float.