A trip to the beach, whether you're heading somewhere dog-friendly, family-friendly or want to surf some waves, is a fun way to explore the outdoors.
But there can be hidden dangers, too, which is why the RNLI is encouraging beachgoers to follow some simple safety advice. If you head to a lifeguarded beach, you'll often see flags flying. Ross Macleod, RNLI water safety manager, explains what they mean and what you should do.
Beach flag meanings
Red and yellow flag
A pair of red and yellow flags indicates the lifeguarded area which is the safest place to swim and bodyboard. RNLI lifeguards patrol beaches between 10am and 6pm and will be on hand to aid people who get into difficulty between the flags.
Never use surfboards, SUP boards or kayaks between these flags.
Red flag
A red beach flag indicates dangerous conditions and means the water should not be entered. It signifies a severe hazard that makes water conditions unsafe for swimming and other water activities – such as strong currents or rip currents.
Black and white chequered beach flag
A black and white chequered flag indicates a surfboard and other water craft zone boundary. This area is for surfboards, stand-up paddleboarders, kayaks and other non-powered craft only. It also marks a launch and recovery area for kitesurfers and windsurfers. Never swim or bodyboard here.
Orange windsock
An orange windsock means that no inflatables are to be used in the water (although they are never recommended to be used in the sea), as it indicates offshore or strong wind conditions.
Find a lifeguarded beach
The RNLI patrols over 250 beaches around the United Kingdom and Channel Islands come peak season in July. You can find your nearest lifeguarded beach on the RNLI website.
If you get into trouble at the beach and cannot alert a lifeguard, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
About the RNLI
The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Powered primarily by donations, their search and rescue service has been saving lives for 200 years.
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