Purple flag on the beach: what this sign means and how to act to enjoy the sea more safely.
Those who frequent the beach usually easily identify the meaning of the most common flags. The green flag indicates favorable conditions for entering the water, the yellow flag recommends taking extra precautions, and the red flag warns of high-risk situations. However, there is another sign that often goes unnoticed and whose importance should not be underestimated: the purple flag.
Beaches and islands
Although it doesn’t mean the beach is closed or swimming is automatically prohibited, this sign serves a crucial preventative function. Its presence indicates that potentially dangerous marine life has recently been detected in the area, so increased vigilance is advised, and lifeguards should follow their instructions.
Contrary to popular belief, the purple flag does not signify imminent danger to swimmers. Nor does it necessarily indicate contact with marine animals. It simply indicates that species have been observed that could cause injury in the event of an accidental encounter. For this reason, authorities urge those entering the water to exercise extra caution and pay close attention to surrounding conditions.
