By Lauren Tjaden


Grab a pen, and check out your beach knowledge in this quick quiz.

The safety flags along Florida's beaches convey messages. The beach warning flags, which use the colors adopted by the International Lifesaving Federation, tell you about the conditions in the ocean and Gulf. And if you -- or anybody in your gang -- ever dips more than a toe in the surf, you should know these beach flag meanings so you can be safe at the beach.
 

beach warning flags

Do you know what the yellow flag means?


Are you ready for the beach warning flags test?

Spoiler alert! Beach flag meanings quiz answers are at the bottom of the page.
 

1. Red beach warning flags mean:

A.      It’s almost Christmas.

B.      Conditions are very hazardous, with high surf and/or strong currents.

C.      The water is closed to the public.
 

beach flag meanings

2. A Yellow flag means:

A.      Conditions present a medium hazard, with moderate surf and/or currents.

B.      It’s safe even for the biggest chickens.

C.      Be cautious; no lifeguards are on duty.
 

3. A Purple flag means:

A.      Conditions are very hazardous, with high surf and/or strong currents.

B.      It’s a royally good day.

C.      Dangerous marine life is present.
 

4. A Red over Red (two red flags):  

A.      Dangerous marine life is present.

B.      The water is closed to the public.

C.      Be cautious; no lifeguards are on duty.
 

5. A Green flag means:

A.      Conditions present a medium hazard, with moderate surf and/or currents.

B.      It’s okay to sunbathe nude.

C.      Calm conditions present a low hazard, but exercise caution.

See below for the answers-- and stay safe!

Photos by Lauren Tjaden for VISIT FLORIDA


Beach flag meanings answers: 1, B; 2, A; 3, C; 4, B; 5, C