Fort Morgan Fire Rescue has already recorded 13 rescues in 2024, more than they usually see all year. Chief Lee Steiner said that is why he needed to get the word out about beach safety.
"As of today, we've had a total of 13 people caught in rip currents," Steiner told 1819 News. "Some of those have self-rescued, and then some of those were rescued between us and the Baldwin County Sheriff's Office."
The majority of the people rescued were from out-of-state, such as Indiana and Kentucky. That's why Steiner said it is important to educate people everywhere about the dangers of rip currents.
Rip currents can be seen from shore. They are deeper spots with breaks in the waves. The current is pulling water away from shore, and people can easily be swept up.
If you get caught in a rip current, experts say don't fight against it. Swim parallel to the shore until you are out of it.
"The biggest thing to do is don't panic," Steiner said. "Just let it take you where it's going to take you and then you can swim back."
Fort Morgan Fire Rescue has a remote-controlled rescue device called a Dolphin that is used to safely rescue people. Last week, Steiner said the dolphin was used to rescue two of three people caught in a rip current. The third person was rescued by a member of the Baldwin County Sheriff's Office. The device has been life-saving and keeps first responders safe.
Steiner said the best way to avoid a rip current is to stay out of rough waters. However, rip currents can develop in any condition, so it is important to remain aware.
The flag system in Baldwin County shows when there is a greater risk of rip currents and high surf. Double red flags mean the water is closed. Red flags mean there is high surf or rip currents.
The Fort Morgan Civic Association recently started a campaign erecting rip current awareness signs throughout the island.
You can text ALBEACHES to 888777 to get beach condition alerts daily. For those who want to stop alerts when they leave the beach, just text STOP.
Fort Morgan Fire Rescue is a volunteer fire department. They sometimes get assistance from the sheriff's office, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) and the Coast Guard.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email erica.thomas@1819news.com.
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