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Two years ago, Alabama beaches celebrated a record number of tourists, but those beaches were also overrun with abandoned umbrellas, beach chairs, tents and water toys. Officials looked for how to improve what some guests called the “deplorable” conditions of the beach. In Orange Beach, the beach ambassador initiative was born. Starting with a four-person staff, there are now nine beach ambassadors who walk the beach during daytime hours, seven days a week. Mike Kimmerling, who runs the beach ambassadors [...]

Do you know how to swim safely on our Alabama beaches? Following the beach flag warning system is one way. But knowing how to escape a rip current can also be lifesaving. Rip currents can occur at any beach with breaking waves, and most often form at low spots or breaks in sandbars. They can also form near piers and jetties. You may not be able to see a rip current, but there are signs of one, such as a break [...]

You see those colored flags flying at the beach, but do you know why they are there? Educate yourself about the beach warning flag system to safely enjoy our beaches. In general, think of the flags like traffic lights. Red means stop. Yellow means proceed with caution. But even if there are no flags flapping in the breeze, always be careful and swim where there is a lifeguard on duty. Just because there is no flag, that does not assure [...]

Ready to get that boat in the water for the season? We hear you! It’s that time of year. Whether your boat is a small sailboat, skiff, pontoon or large fishing vessel, use responsible practices while out on the water. There are simple tips that are just common courtesy. Don’t toss trash overboard, for example. Or watch your wake when boating near the shore, as it can wash away early sea life that grows there. But there are other aspects [...]