At many patrolled beaches, paired red-and-yellow flags mark the designated area supervised by lifeguards. They indicate where swimming is permitted within the monitored zone, subject to the current conditions and any additional warnings.
This is particularly important at beaches where waves and currents vary considerably along the shoreline. One stretch of beach may be suitable for swimming while another nearby section contains a rip current, submerged rocks, or other hazards.
When you arrive, look for the red-and-yellow flags before choosing where to swim. Stay between them if that is how the local beach patrol marks its supervised swimming area.
Avoid drifting far beyond the marked zone, even if the water looks equally calm. Lifeguards can monitor a defined area more effectively than the entire coastline, and conditions may differ just a short distance away.
If you are traveling with children or inexperienced swimmers, choosing a lifeguard-supervised area is one of the simplest ways to improve safety.
However, supervision does not eliminate risk. Continue to follow instructions, remain aware of changing conditions, and leave the water when directed.
7. Black-and-White Checkered Flags: Watch for Watercraft Zones
Black-and-white checkered flags may be used to identify areas designated for surfboards and other non-powered watercraft. Their purpose is to help separate activities that could otherwise put swimmers and water-sports participants in conflict.A person swimming close to a surfer may not realize how quickly a board can move through the water. Likewise, a surfer may have limited ability to avoid a swimmer when riding a wave.
Keeping these activities in designated areas helps reduce collisions and confusion.
If you are swimming, pay attention to any checkered flags and nearby signs. Do not assume that every section of a beach is suitable for swimming simply because the water is open.
If you are surfing or using a paddleboard, follow the marked boundaries and local rules. Some beaches may use different symbols or separate zones for motorized and non-motorized craft.
8. Yellow Flag With a Black Circle: Watercraft Restrictions
A yellow flag with a black circle in the center is used in some standardized beach systems to indicate that surfboards and other non-powered watercraft are prohibited in the relevant area.
This is a useful example of why it is important to look at the entire flag rather than simply noticing its color.
A plain yellow flag commonly signals moderate hazards, while a yellow flag with a central black circle communicates a specific restriction on watercraft.
The restriction may be related to safety, the layout of the beach, or the need to keep a swimming area clear.
Before launching a board or other watercraft, check the posted regulations. Never assume that a piece of equipment is permitted simply because other people are using similar equipment elsewhere on the beach.
9. Orange Windsock: Offshore Wind Warning
An orange windsock is a particularly important warning for anyone planning to use an inflatable object in the sea.
In the standardized warning system, it indicates offshore winds and warns that inflatable objects should not be used in the water.
Offshore winds blow from the land toward the sea. They can push inflatable mattresses, pool rings, beach toys, and other lightweight objects away from shore.
The danger is that a person may drift farther out than expected before realizing how difficult it is to return.
A seemingly gentle breeze can carry an inflatable object beyond a swimmer's ability to paddle back. Children are particularly vulnerable because they may not have the strength or judgment to respond when the wind carries them away.
If you see an orange windsock indicating offshore winds:
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Keep inflatable toys out of the water.
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Do not use an air mattress as a substitute for swimming ability.
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Keep children away from floating inflatables near the surf.
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Follow lifeguard instructions about wind and water conditions.
An inflatable object may be useful in a controlled pool environment, but it should never be treated as reliable protection against ocean currents or wind.