The sugar-white sand and emerald-colored water of
our pristine beaches provide a great place to have
fun, but be aware that dangerous currents are
sometimes present. It is imperative that you heed the
warnings of our flag system. We want you to have fun
but please, swim safely.
Surf conditions can be deceiving. There can be
dangerous currents even on calm days. Call for the
latest surf advisory at Pensacola Beach (932-SURF) and
the Gulf Islands National Seashore in the protected
areas.
Emergency Actions
If
an emergency occurs in an area not covered by a
lifeguard, call 911. It's always safest to "Swim With
The Lifeguards". Look for guards before setting up your
towels and umbrella
Rip Currents
Rip
currents are narrow channels of water flowing out past
the surf zone that can pull even strong swimmers into
deep water beyond the offshore sand bar.
If caught in a rip current, do not panic! Try to
escape a rip current by moving sideways across it;
parallel to the shore. If the current is too strong, let
it carry you further away from shore and it will weaken.
Then swim back to shore at an angle away from the rip
current.
