Panama City Beach is cracking down on those that don’t obey the double red flag warning systems while at the beach. The goal is simple, to save more lives and to deter those that choose to break the rules.
On Thursday, 8/22/24, council members passed Ordinance No. 1650 which will make flag violation fines code enforcement’s job easier when it comes to issuing fines on the beach for double red flag violations.
The Ordinance will allow the police or code enforcement officer to issue fines to swimmers while double red flags are raised, without the need to give a warning prior. In the past, enforcement officials could only issue a fine if a violator returned to water after being asked to get out. They would have to order you out, wait to see that you disobeyed and then they could enforce this ordinance. Now, if you know or should have known that it is double red they can enforce the ordinance.
Daryl Paul, the city’s beach safety director stated “we try our best to reason with you and educate you on the hazard and the double red flag enforcement, but some people tend to comply when you just inform them of the issue or inform them of the hazard and some really don’t want to comply.” According to Paul, lifeguards conducted 237 rescues in in 2023 and more than 100 in 2024 so far.
According to the Ordinance, entry into the water of the Gulf of Mexico during double red flags is prohibited and unlawful and the 1st offense is a $500 fine and the 2nd offense is punishable by a fine of no more than one thousand dollars ($1,000.00), or a sentence of not more than sixty (60) days in jail, or both.
To review the full Ordinance No. 1650 visit the city’s website to view the official document.
Bottom line, obey the flags flying and obey the LAW! This will not only save you a huge fine and your life, but possibly the life of others who will be trying to save you.
For more information about staying safe at the beach, be sure to check out our blog “Tips for Staying Safe at the Beach” on our website. It not only highlights the flag warning system and what the flag colors mean, but you’ll find tips on what to do if you’re caught in a riptide, along with many other safety tips to help you and your family stay safe!
And, when you are ready to book your next beach vacation book your stay with Premium Beach Condos!