Waters across the Gulf have seen double red flags most of the week, indicating they are closed to swimmers due to the rough conditions of the surf.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) now has a helicopter patrolling the state’s Gulf Coast in order to increase the speed with which first responders and rescue crews can arrive in emergency situations.
“What we are going to see is more patrols…That allows us not only to respond quickly, but to be in the air already,” State Sen. Chris Elliott (R-Josephine) told WKRG.
Elliot helped to secure the state funding, roughly $400k, to increase the amount of chopper trips across the coast.
Gulf Shores Fire Chief Mark Sealy said he understands frustration by locals and tourists with the beaches being closed, but that the rough waters of the Gulf are nothing to mess with. “It’s kind of like going to an amusement park and the roller coaster is closed. I understand the disappointment. This is a completely different animal than that. This gulf is relentless,” Sealy said.
Officials will hope that increased air presence will allow for better prediction of dangerous currents and decrease response times in emergency situations.
Michael Brauner is a Senior Sports Analyst and Contributing Writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @MBraunerWNSP and hear him every weekday morning from 6 to 9 a.m. on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5, available free online.
Don’t miss out! Subscribe today to have Alabama’s leading headlines delivered to your inbox.