Beach Safety & Live Conditions in Malta

Beach safety flags provide important information about current sea conditions and swimming safety.

• 🟢 Green Flag — Conditions are generally safe for swimming. Always exercise normal caution.
• 🟡 Yellow Flag — Moderate hazards may be present. Exercise increased caution, particularly if you are inexperienced or supervising children.
• 🔴 Red Flag — Dangerous sea conditions. Swimming is strongly discouraged.
• 🟣 Purple Flag — Marine hazards have been reported in the area, such as jellyfish or other potentially dangerous marine life. Exercise caution and follow lifeguard advice.
• 🔴🟡 Red and Yellow Flags — The area between these flags is supervised by lifeguards and is the safest place to swim.

Please note: Flags may change throughout the day as weather and sea conditions evolve. Always check the latest flags and follow the instructions of lifeguards on duty.

Alert the nearest lifeguard immediately or call 112 if emergency assistance is required.

Do not enter the water to attempt a rescue unless you are trained to do so. Untrained rescuers can quickly become casualties themselves.

Stay calm and avoid swimming directly against the current.

If possible:

• Float or tread water to conserve energy.
• Swim parallel to the shoreline until you are out of the current.
• Signal for help by raising one arm if you need assistance.

To reduce the risk of accidents and emergencies:

• Swim at lifeguarded beaches whenever possible.
• Always check the beach safety flags.
• Never swim alone.
• Supervise children closely at all times.
• Stay hydrated and use sun protection.
• Avoid diving into unfamiliar waters.
• Follow lifeguard instructions and beach signage.
• Keep an eye on changing weather and sea conditions.

Inflatable toys, mattresses and floats can be carried offshore quickly by wind and currents.

Children using inflatables should be closely supervised, and inflatables should never be relied upon as lifesaving devices.

Alcohol affects judgment, coordination and reaction times, significantly increasing the risk of drowning and other accidents.

Avoid swimming or entering the water if you have been drinking alcohol.

Leave the water and seek assistance from a lifeguard.

Avoid rubbing the affected area, as this may worsen the sting. Seek medical attention if symptoms are severe or if you experience difficulty breathing, dizziness or significant swelling.

Notify the nearest lifeguard immediately and provide a description of the child.

Lifeguards will coordinate the appropriate response and assist in locating them as quickly as possible.

No. Lifeguards are not on duty all year round. Beach lifeguard services are typically provided during the bathing season at designated beaches.

Outside these periods, beaches may not be supervised and visitors should exercise increased caution.

In an emergency, call 112, Malta's national emergency number.

If you are interested in becoming a lifeguard or learning more about our training programmes, visit our Join Our Team page or contact us to learn about upcoming recruitment and training opportunities.