Stay Informed
Vacationing the smart way! Gulf Waters can be very dangerous, therefore understanding the dangers and taking the right precautions will help prevent and prepare you from serious situations. Here are several ways to ensure the safety of yourself and your family when visiting Orange Beach:
Know and Heed the Beach Warning Flags
YELLOW
Moderate surf and/or currents
PURPLE
Dangerous marine life
RED
High surf and/or strong currents
DOUBLE RED
Water closed to the public
Know What to Do if Someone Else is in Danger
- First, CALL 9-1-1
- Seek help from a life guard; 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.
- Check this page for updates
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 lifejackets
- 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
