Everyone knows – or can surmise – that a green flag flying at the beach means conditions are favorable for enjoying sand and surf. But do you know what a purple flag means? Or when it is illegal to enter the water on a Gulf Shores city beach? At www.thebeachiscalling.org, a handy chart of beach warning flags is available. From the home page, click on the “Hurricane Gustav” link. From there, follow the “beach warning flags” link for information on what the various colors mean. A double red flag means the water is closed to the public – and, in Gulf Shores, it is illegal to enter the water from a city beach when double red flags are displayed. A purple flag denotes the presence of “dangerous marine life,” while a single red flag denotes highly hazardous conditions such as rip currents. The beaches within Orange Beach, Gulf Shores and Gulf State Park have adopted this flag system to alert beachgoers of surf conditions. Flags are posted at all public beach areas and conditions are monitored throughout each day. Keep in mind, though, that conditions can change quickly. One great thing about the Alabama Gulf Coast: If the Gulf isn’t welcoming, the sugary sands are. Unless the green flag is waving, skip the dip and work on your sand castle skills!