Since the 1960s, the beaches of Europe and America have become a tourist attraction par excellence. Thousands of tourists flock to the beaches in search of sun, sand and sea. Flags on the Beach
Despite the undeniable attraction of the beach itself, it is a place with certain risks for bathers: the flow of waves, electrical storms and jellyfish. In this way, with the purpose of offering a safer and more attractive location, states and municipalities around the world created a code with flags to inform the state of the sea.
As a general rule, those responsible for placing these flags are the beach lifeguards, those who are informed about the weather conditions.
There are two coding systems in relation to the beach and the sea: the Latin American and the European. Both are distinguished by the colors and meaning of the flags used. Flags on the Beach
The flags of Latin America
The yellow and black flag represents the doubtful sea, one that is possible to bathe in, but which is not recommended for a less experienced swimmer.
The sky blue flag is used when the sea is completely calm and poses no danger to swimmers.
The red flag indicates the ban on bathing. However, this prohibition is relative, as it depends on each individual’s personal choice . It should be noted that the lifeguard is not allowed to prohibit, but rather to alert and inform. Flags on the Beach
The black flag with a crossed beam represents a danger situation due to the impact of the beam and immediate evacuation from the sea and the beach is recommended.
Flags in Europe
The green flag is used when the sea is completely calm and swimming conditions are ideal.
The yellow flag indicates that the sea can cause some problems, such as big waves, dangerous currents or strong gusts of wind. For this reason, this indication communicates that it is preferable not to shower.
The red flag indicates the prohibition of bathing for some reason: weather conditions, water contamination, presence of dangerous animals, etc. Flags on the Beach
In some areas prone to the presence of jellyfish, on certain occasions, a flag with the figure of a jellyfish is used, which serves as a warning of the presence of these animals.
Finally, the blue flag is a quality badge that informs you about the best conditions for going to the beach, to know the state of the water, services for people with disabilities , public services, etc.
