In 2024, NOAA listed where drownings had occurred along local beaches. The report shed light on beach safety and those areas without lifeguards. Since then local and county officials have reviewed items that could better inform beach goers of safety issues before they access the water.

The Baldwin County Commission has received federal funding to install new beach safety markers along the Fort Morgan Peninsula to enhance emergency response on the shoreline. The highly visible markers will be placed at public access points and nearby streets. County officials say the markers will give beachgoers a clear reference to share when calling 9-1-1. They expect the simple signs to help first responders locate people in trouble on long, unmarked stretches of beach.

The funding amounts to $500,000 in federal appropriations and was secured by U.S. Congressman Barry Moore as part of the Fiscal Year 2026 process. The County has expressed gratitude to Moore for helping position the safety project for future implementation. The markers are scheduled for public beach access points and surrounding streets along Fort Morgan.

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Officials say the markers are especially important because Fort Morgan’s shoreline has few landmarks and long open areas of sand. Without clear reference points, callers can struggle to describe exactly where they are during an emergency. The new markers aim to remove that confusion and provide both visitors and residents with an easy way to report their location.

Fort Morgan is currently served by the Fort Morgan Volunteer Fire Department and the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office, and there are no full-time lifeguards on the peninsula. With many access points spread across miles of coastline, local leaders believe the markers will help reduce critical response times. They also expect the signs to assist responders from different agencies in coordinating more quickly on scene.

Baldwin County is among the fastest-growing areas in our state, and I’m proud to have worked alongside the County Commission to help secure these vital investments for our community,” said Congressman Barry Moore. “The beach safety markers in Fort Morgan will help protect families and visitors who enjoy our beautiful Gulf Coast.”

Baldwin County EMA Director Tom Tyler explained that the project demonstrates how planning in advance can enhance public safety. “Emergency management is about preparedness and removing barriers before an emergency occurs. These markers eliminate confusion and provide both callers and responders with clarity during high-stress situations. It’s a simple solution that improves our overall safety network.”

Tourism officials also welcomed the funding, highlighting Fort Morgan’s unique lodging layout and beach access. Beth Gendler, President and CEO of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism, noted that educating visitors and residents on beach safety has been a focus for years among local governments and agencies. She added that with Fort Morgan’s lodging mainly consisting of rental homes and very limited public access points, the funding is essential for expanding BEACH SAFE messaging in the area.

“This signage will greatly help the Fort Morgan Volunteer Fire Department and Baldwin County Sheriff deputies alert people to potential hazards and how to enjoy their day at the beach safely,” Gendler said.

Fort Morgan Fire Chief Lee Steiner stated that the markers will assist emergency personnel in various types of calls. “By labeling beach access points and adding safety markers, we can decrease emergency response times and enable responders from other agencies to reach their destinations more swiftly. These markers will also serve as important reference points for missing persons cases and other emergencies.”

County leaders say the project demonstrates Baldwin County’s responsibility to upgrade its safety infrastructure as the population and visitor numbers increase. They see the marker program as part of a larger effort to handle the rising demand on local services and the natural challenges of a long, open coastline.

Once federal requirements are fulfilled and funds are released, Baldwin County will proceed to the design and implementation phase for the markers. Officials said that additional updates, including estimated timelines, will be provided as more information becomes available.