How to read beach flag colors (and what to do if you see them)

Traffic lights taught us simple information: red – stop, green – go. But does it work with beach flags, which are used by lifeguards to signal bathing conditions today? What if the flag was generally black and white? And here’s what.

Please do not confuse the signal flags with the beach quality assessment flags – blue, yellow and green.

While the green flag indicates calm conditions, it is considered a “low danger” flag. Because the ocean is always unpredictable, even on clear, windless days. You should always keep your eyes open, pay attention to warnings from lifeguards and keep an eye out for children.

Yellow indicates “medium danger”, which means that the waves are stronger than usual and so is the current. For those who swim badly, it is better not to enter the water or to do so only in a life jacket. In addition, beaches with a dangerous bottom (steep cliff, slippery stones) can be marked with a yellow flag.

The red flag indicates “high danger”, so expect big waves and heavy waves. Swimming is technically permitted, but only for experienced swimmers.

Without options – you cannot enter the water.

Sounds alarming, but in fact the flag is good – it just means the beach is under lifeguard surveillance.

A purple flag indicates that there are jellyfish or other sea creatures in the water that could harm swimmers. Also, this flag may indicate water pollution. You can swim, of course, but you have been warned.

A black circle on a bright yellow flag means that surfboards and other non-motorized watercraft are prohibited in the area, they swim here only.

But the black and white flag divided into four parts indicates a surf zone. Bathers have nothing to do here.

Hazard, hazard! If the tower lifeguard raises such a flag, you should get out of the water as soon as possible. Maybe a storm is approaching, or someone has spotted a shark, or an oil slick is floating down the beach. On the shore you will understand.

The youngest rescue flag – it only began to appear on the beaches in 2022 and it is not yet known whether it will take root. Such a flag signifies increased UV activity and reminds you to replenish your sunscreen – or even go outside to sit in the active sun.