Double red flags kept visitors on land this Memorial Day

PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. ( WMBB ) – Thousands of visitors spent the holiday weekend along the world’s most beautiful beaches, but a rough gulf put a damper on vacationers who wanted to swim.

Double red flags were flying high in Panama City Beach most of the day this Memorial Day Monday. Local safety officials said it’s crucial for the public to heed their warnings.

“Double red flags indicate that the rip currents are simply too strong. They can be very dangerous. They can be difficult to spot, sometimes even to a trained professional,” Panama City Beach Fire Rescue Beach Safety Director Daryl Paul said.

Paul said lifeguards made hundreds of water rescues last summer as a result of beach-goers ignoring the double red flags.

“Our lifeguards completed 237 rescues. That’s where the lifeguard responded to an actual water emergency and saved a life. We don’t want anyone to put themselves in a bad situation, take on any unnecessary risk, and potentially create more victims for the problem,” Paul said.

This puts swimmers’ and first responders’ lives at risk.

“We don’t want anyone to put themselves in a bad situation, take on any unnecessary risk and potentially create more victims for the problem,” Paul said.

There are things you should and shouldn’t do if you get caught in a rip current.

“Don’t panic. Try to swim sideways parallel to shore, and you’ll land on a sandbar. You can walk right in. We ask everybody on shore, please do not enter the water. If you see someone struggling in a rip current, please call 911,” Paul said.

Paul said he wants locals, tourists, and first responders to return home safely.

“We want everyone to visit responsibly and safely. We want everyone to go home to their families. We want you to come to Panama City Beach and build long-lasting memories with your friends and family,” Paul said.

To get updated surf and flag conditions directly on your cell phone, text PCB FLAGS to 888-777.

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