Why 'No Swimming' Zones? How to Stay Safe at the Beach

Many popular beaches are crowded this summer, and each bathing area has marked ‘no swimming’ zones that can be hard for nonexperts to distinguish from swimable sections. Local authorities set these zones because of hazards such as strong currents, underwater sandbanks, and boat traffic, and they are marked with signs, flags, and buoys. Beachgoers are advised to follow lifeguards’ instructions, swim only in guarded areas, check local hazard information, and supervise children closely to reduce accidents.