Unlike green, yellow, or red flags, which usually warn about waves and currents, purple flags focus on ocean animals. The water is not always closed, but swimmers should be more careful before entering.
The best step is to ask lifeguards what has been seen and where. They can explain the current conditions and help visitors decide whether it is safe to swim.
Simple precautions can reduce risk, such as shuffling your feet in shallow water, watching children closely, and wearing protective swimwear if jellyfish are present. The purple flag is meant to inform, not frighten, so people can enjoy the beach safely.
