Cox’s Bazar Sea Beach, large waves crash onto the shore while thousands of tourists enjoy bathing in the sea. However, hand mikes and whistles are used to urge them to come out of the water.
The reason for this is the presence of red flags at Kalatoli, Sugandha, and Laboni points on Cox’s Bazar beach. The presence of a red flag means swimming is dangerous. Despite this, many tourists ignore the warning and enter the sea.
Senior lifeguard Mohammad Shukkur explained that on Friday, March 24, due to rough seas, red flags were hoisted instead of the usual red-yellow flags. The sea is currently rough, making swimming unsafe.
Why Are Red Flags Raised?
Cox’s Bazar Sea Beach uses two types of flags: red-yellow and red. The red-yellow flag indicates that swimming is safe, while the red flag means the sea is unsafe for bathing.
Imtiaz Ahmed, Field Team Manager of C Safe Lifeguards, said that the sea remains turbulent and unsuitable for swimming, which is why the red flags have been raised.
Since many tourists come from far away to simply float in the saltwater, lifeguards request that they stay within knee-deep water. Using hand mikes and whistles, lifeguards urge tourists to come out of the water regularly. If tube rentals are available, they are requested not to go far.
The administration also urges people not to rent tubes from unauthorized sources.
Safety Instructions for Tourists When Red Flags Are Raised
Imtiaz Ahmed further advised that when red flags are up, tourists must not venture beyond knee-deep water and they should stay near lifeguard patrol areas.
If anyone feels danger while in the water, they should calmly raise their hand and call out to lifeguards dressed in yellow.
If possible, to prevent turning a joyful visit into a tragedy, it is best not to enter the water at all during these times.
Red Flags Raised Again on the Beach
Due to rough seas, from Friday, May 23, red flags have been placed at various points on the beach including Kalatoli, Sugandha, and Laboni to ensure tourist safety.
The red flag warns that it is now dangerous to enter the sea.
Senior lifeguard Mohammad Shukkur stated that the sea condition remains rough. Therefore, unlike usual days when red-yellow flags fly, only red flags have been raised today, indicating swimming is unsafe.
Imtiaz Ahmed added, “Many tourists come from distant places to enjoy floating in the saltwater. However, when red flags are raised, going beyond waist-deep water is not allowed. Visitors may enter knee-deep water but must remain cautious.”
By Abdur Rashid Manik
Photo: Abdur Rashid Manik
