Okaloosa Beach Safety lifeguard season ends Oct. 27, following more than 200 open water rescues. Beach Safety will maintain limited daily patrols and 911 responses from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. throughout the winter months on Okaloosa Island; however, winter surf conditions are often dangerous.
Conditions will be monitored and warning flags will be flown when necessary. The county’s beach-flag warning system comprises a green flag indicating safe swimming conditions; yellow flag, medium hazard; red flag, high hazard; and purple flag indicating marine pests’ presence. A double red flag flying along public beaches signifies waters are closed.
Officials recommend swimming in areas with on-duty lifeguards and always using caution in the water.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Okaloosa County lifeguard season ends Oct. 27