Alabama's Beaches - 2024 Official Vacation Guide
Beach Safety
2023-10-23 04:56:10
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
THE BEST BEACH VACATION IS A SAFE ONE!
Gulf waters can be very dangerous. Surf conditions can overwhelm even the best swimmer. We want to ensure the vacation memories you take home are happy ones. Please take time to review the following information ahead of your visit and while you are here.
CHECK WEATHER AND SURF CONDITIONS DAILY
Text “ALBEACHES” to “888777” to sign up for daily surf conditions text alerts. Text “STOP” to opt out of notifications upon your departure.
• Gulf Shores: 251-968-SURF
• Orange Beach: 251-981-SURF
• Online: VisitALBeaches.com/Safety
KNOW YOUR LIMITATIONS
• Learn to swim; non-swimmers should stay out of the water
• Don’t overestimate your swimming ability
• Don’t rely on inner tubes, floats or other inflatable toys
• Use Coast Guard-approved life jackets
• Designate a water-watcher and supervise children closely
• Never swim alone
SWIM NEAR A LIFEGUARD
• Lifeguards are stationed seasonally at all public beaches in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach (March through September)
• Currently, no lifeguard protection is available in the Fort Morgan area
LEARN HOW TO ESCAPE A RIP CURRENT
Rip currents are powerful currents of water moving away from shore. They can sweep even the strongest swimmer away from shore.
• If caught in a rip current, remain calm
• Escape the current by swimming parallel to the shoreline
• When free of the current, swim at an angle—away from the current—toward shore
• Float or tread water if unable to escape by swimming
• If unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by facing the shore and calling or waving for help
• See our important rip current video: VisitALBeaches.com/Safety
KNOW WHAT TO DO IF SOMEONE ELSE IS IN DANGER
• First, CALL 9-1-1
• Seek help from a lifeguard; if no lifeguard is present, yell instructions on how to escape the current
• Throw the victim something that floats
• Don’t attempt to perform a rescue as you could also get caught in the current
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