A lot of the couples that I perform wedding ceremonies for are from out of state and may not be aware of the danger that the rip tides are. There are flags on every beach area along the Panhandle. Please take a look at them when you get to the beach...
Red flag means stay out of the water- there are riptides present or the surf is very high.
Double red flag means that it is very dangerous to be in the water, even at ankle depth.
Yellow means use caution and a floatation device.
Green means there are no riptides present and the surf is calm.
Purple means that there is marine life in the area that can bite you, such as jelly fish.
What this means is if the flags are RED... stay OUT of the water...ankle depth or knee depth is NOT safe. The riptides can pull you off your feet and take you out very quickly. In the past week, we have had at least 5 drownings that I have heard of ... all of them while red flags were flying. Not only is this dangerous for you, but you are also putting our lifeguards or any other person who attempts to rescue you in danger.
Everyone is here is for a good time and to enjoy the beautiful beaches, please, don't turn it into a tragedy. If you think you are a strong swimmer or that being up to your knees is ok, it is not... enjoy the beach, but swim at the pool.
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