There’s nothing quite like a day at the British seaside, but before you head into the water, it’s worth taking a moment to understand the flags flying above the sand.

The Lifeguarded Zone: Red and Yellow

Wherever you see a pair of red and yellow flags, you’re looking at the area patrolled by RNLI lifeguards, and it’s the safest place on the beach to swim or bodyboard. Lifeguards typically patrol these zones between 10am and 6pm during peak season, keeping a close eye on anyone in the water. It’s always worth sticking between these flags, even if the sea looks calm elsewhere.

The Surf Zone: Black and White Chequered

If you spot black and white chequered flags, you’re looking at an area set aside for surfboards, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks and other watercraft, including the launch and recovery zones for kitesurfers and windsurfers. This isn’t a swimming area, so if you’re planning to swim or bodyboard, steer clear and head for the red and yellow flags instead.

Danger: The Red Flag

A single red flag is one of the clearest warnings you’ll see on any beach, and it means exactly what it says: dangerous conditions. When a red flag is flying, the advice from the RNLI is simple – do not enter the water under any circumstances, regardless of how experienced a swimmer you are.

Strong Winds: The Orange Windsock

An orange windsock might be easy to overlook, but it carries an important message about offshore or strong wind conditions. If you see one flying, leave the inflatables as offshore winds can carry them, and anyone on them, out to sea surprisingly quickly.

In an Emergency

If you ever find yourself, or someone else, in difficulty and can’t reach a lifeguard, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

Understanding these flags takes moments, but it’s one of the simplest ways to make sure your trip to the beach stays a happy memory rather than an emergency. So next time you’re packing the sun cream and the buckets and spades, take a second to check the flags first.