Carefull Beach Swimming In Portugal

Just spotted this bit of info:-

Beachgoers in Portugal who ignore instructions from lifeguards or fail to heed flags warning of dangerous seas may be fined up to $70 US under a new law announced by the government Thursday.

Authorities aim to crack down on beach accidents and drowning deaths during the official bathing season, which runs from June 1 to Sept. 30.

Last year authorities recorded 21 drowning deaths at Portuguese beaches, four more than the previous year.

Red flags raised by lifeguards forbid anyone from entering the sea, while a yellow flag warns bathers not to stray out of their depth.

Thousands of European tourists head to Portugal's beaches in the summer, especially to the southern Algarve region and the Lisbon coast.