By Patricia Lee, Destinites
Spring break is in full swing now until about mid-April. Every year I see concerns posted by locals, in our private Destinites Facebook group. I am going to address a couple of those concerns here, because it isn’t just locals who read this paper. So, VISITORS, this one’s for YOU!
#1. When you go to the beach, the first thing you need to do is look for the flags. They are on very tall polls and could be flying any one of four different colors; Red (High hazard – rip currents present), Yellow (Medium hazard), Purple (Dangerous marine life present – could be jelly fish or any other dangerous sea creatures), or Green (Low hazard – Best conditions for swimming but always stay aware). DOUBLE RED FLAGS mean swimming is closed to the public and you could receive a $500 fine for entering the water. This is because you are putting rescuers in danger; not just yourself.
We locals realize you have spent a lot of money for your vacation, but it is sad and unnecessary to have to send you home in a body bag or have to call the family of someone who tried to save you from a rip current and lost their own life, in the process. Keep an eye on the flags while you are out there, because they can change in a heartbeat. They are there to help keep you safe. Please pay attention to them!
If you are staying in a condo or hotel, you can most likely find a flag chart displayed in your room. Please familiarize yourself and your entire party with it. Some beach entrances also have a billboard displayed with descriptions of the flags. Take time to be aware so that you will have a fun and safe trip.
#2. Driving around town: Before you get in your car, take a deep breath and bring your patience. Roads are packed with visitors, but also locals, as we go about our daily routines. Please slow down and do not weave in and out of traffic. Speed and weaving are two major culprits in causing wrecks. Rear enders can be high on the list, too, since visitors are trying to find an address or just look at scenery while driving. Please keep your eyes on the road and do not stop on a bridge to take pictures, which is dangerous.
#3. Please don’t drink and drive! A taxi ride may cost you a little, but if you kill yourself or someone else, the cost will be a whole lot higher, in more ways than one.
I invite everyone to visit our Destinites website to sign up for our monthly newsletter, as it is open to all. If you are actually a resident of Destin or the surrounding area, I invite you to join our very active, private locals Facebook group with 6000+ members, and a place where you can come to reach out for immediate local help or, ask for recommendations, find out about community happenings, meet your neighbors and make a new friend. See you there!
Patricia Lee, Owner: www.Destinites.com
Creator: www.Facebook.com/groups/Destinites
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