Staying Safe on Galveston Beaches

The Galveston Island Beach Patrol puts out all kinds of information about how to stay safe when visiting the beaches.

One important area to familiarize yourself with is our Flag Warning System (FWS) which advises beach patrons of the current water conditions and any applicable environmental warnings.

Flag Warning System

The Flag Warning System is used to advise beach patrons of the current water conditions and any applicable environmental warnings. The flag colors described below are part of a national system employed to help beachgoers understand the current conditions in the always dynamic environment of open water.

Check Current Beach Conditions

Galveston Island Beach Patrol employs a notification system that displays the day’s warning flags, along with any specific advisories for the day. Interested parties can sign up to receive the notifications via email and/or text message daily.

Sign Up for Beach Warning/ Advisory Notifications

Flag Warning System
Green Flag

Conditions are calm but swim with care. Remember this doesn't mean you're 100% safe. The ocean isn't a pool or pond so you should always be extra careful even on flat days.

Flag Warning System
Yellow Flag

This indicates that beachgoers should use caution when entering the water. This flag is flown for normal ocean conditions to remind swimmers to stay alert. It is very important to stay close to shore on yellow days.

Flag Warning System
Red Flag

Flown when conditions are rough, such as the presence of strong wind, strong current or large surf. Adult swimmers should stay in water no more than waist deep and non-swimmers and children should enjoy the water along the surf line. When there is a red flag flying you should assume the presence of very strong rip currents near any type of structure like groins or jetties.

Flag Warning System
Purple Flag

Indicates potential problems with jellyfish, Portuguese man-o-war, stingrays, or other marine life that could be a hazard for swimmers. Purple flags are used in combination with other flags.

Flag Warning System
Orange Flag

Indicates there is an environmental warning for air and/or water quality. Ask the Lifeguard for more details. Orange pennant flags will be used in combination with other flags.

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