Swim between the flags

Drishti Marine lifesavers begin the day by scouting the beaches for harsh and rough currents and accordingly place cautionary flags to deter people from venturing into those specific zones. Safe swim zones are always monitored by on-duty Drishti Marine lifesavers, who are ready with necessary rescue equipment in case of emergencies.

Over the course of the day, the lifesavers shift the flags according to the changing currents. Water sports activity is not allowed near designated swim zones, which are marked by red and yellow coded flags.

Safety Flags

Red Flag - Danger Zone - Beachgoers are advised to avoid swimming in this zone due to rough currents. 

Red and Yellow Flag - Swim Zone - A designated swim zone is located between two red and yellow flags which are placed on the beach at a distance of approximately 100 metres. Beachgoers can swim for up to 50 mts in the sea in between these two flags. 

Yellow Flag - Safe Zone - Beachgoers are advised to proceed into the water up to knee-level due to rough under-currents.

Black and White Flag - Water-sports area - Beachgoers are advised to avoid swimming in zones which are designated for water-sports activity.

Avoid drinking and swimming

Being a fun, beach tourist destination, visitors to Goa tend to consume alcohol during beach outings in order to let their hair down.  In such instances, Drishti Marine advises guests to exercise caution and avoid swimming in the sea in order to avoid accidents.

Rip Currents/Rip Tides

Rip currents or rip tides are strong and narrow water currents that flow from the shore out to sea. They can be dangerous and it's important to avoid being caught in them. Rip currents can occur anywhere irrespective of location, sandy stretches, rocky areas, etc. 

Safety tips by Drishti Marine Lifesavers

• Stay alert and keep an ear open for regular public safety announcements made by patrolling lifesavers.

• Keep a very close eye on children while on the beach and do not allow them to venture into the waters unattended, no matter how shallow they may be.

• If under the influence of alcohol, make sure you do not venture into the water. 

• Always read and obey the safety signs found at the main entrance of the beach.

• Always swim in the safe swim zones marked with coded flags out by lifesavers. While on the beach find the red and yellow flags and always swim between them. This area is watched by lifesavers. Do not venture into the no-swim zones marked with red flags.

• It is best to visit the beach when the lifesavers are on duty between 7:00 am and sunset.

• Avoid swimming alone. If you get into trouble, stick your hand in the air and shout for help.

• If a child goes missing, do not panic. Alert a lifesaver immediately.

• If you encounter a rip current while swimming, it is best to stay afloat and alert the lifesaver on duty. The lifesavers are constantly monitoring the beach and are trained to identify and monitor rip tides.

• Do not attempt to rescue if you see anyone in difficulty if you are not a trained lifesaver. If you are on a beach with lifesavers, contact the nearest lifesaver or approach the lifesaving tower.

• People should avoid taking selfies near rocky/slippery areas. 

Warning boards

Drishti Marine is dedicated to the safety of beachgoers. To prevent accidents and promote responsible behaviour, we have established designated 'No Selfie Zones' and strategically placed barricades along the beaches, especially around areas which are rocky or have slippery surfaces and are prone to accidents