Florida beaches: 4 things to know before you go
A trip to the beach is always fun! It's important to know the following before you hit the water at Florida's white sandy beaches:
1.) 🚩 Always follow colored flags & know what they mean
Use caution when entering the Gulf. A green flag is fly does not mean it's completely safe to swim.
2.) 🌊 Watch out for rip currents
Source: FloridaDEP.gov
Look for breaks in the waves where a rip current could be present
According to weather.gov, rip currents are the #1 weather-related killer at the beaches along the northern Gulf Coast. There have been 195 rip current fatalities since 2002 in the beaches covered by the National Weather Service Offices in Mobile, AL. and Tallahassee, FL.
3.) 👣 Leave only footprints
Source: CleanIsland.org
It's important to clean up everything you brought with you to the beach!
Please remove all personal items from the beach. Glass is NOT allowed - this is important for wildlife, such as sea turtles, as well as safe coastal enjoyment for our many visitors.
4.) 🏖 Have fun
📸: visuasfervor
It's time to relax and enjoy your vacation at the beach! Whether you're here solo or with friends, family or co-workers, Florida's beaches will have you coming back each year! A few extra tips:
- 🌴 Avoid walking on beach vegetation. The roots of sea oats and other grasses hold the dunes together.
- 🐦 When wandering, stay away from bird nesting areas. The nests may be on the ground or in the sand and hard to see.
- ♼ Please don’t litter. Pack up and take out all of your trash and dispose of it properly.
- 🌞 If you dig a hole, fill it in. Even small holes can be hazardous to people and wildlife.