Baldwin County officials are reminding beachgoers of safety precautions that could save lives. Just four years ago, Baldwin County Sheriff’s deputy William “Bill” Smith died in the line of duty while attempting to save a distressed swimmer. He was able to save the person but the 57-year-old drowned.

The loss of Smith, who retired as a firefighter before going into law enforcement, shook the community and the state.

The Baldwin County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) has since established a beach safety initiative in honor of Smith.

The EMA worked out a plan to educate Baldwin County residents and visitors. They said they want people to come for vacation but want them to be aware of the dangers.

Rip currents are a top cause of drownings along Alabama beaches. The strong currents quickly flow away from shore, pulling swimmers underwater.

The easiest way to identify a rip current is to look for a calm area of water surrounded by waves. The area that appears to be calm is likely a rip current.

Officials say it is important to avoid those small patches. However, if a swimmer does get caught in a rip current, they should remain calm and swim parallel to the shoreline until they are free of the current.

The beach flag warning system alerts the public to dangerous currents and marine life. A yellow flag represents moderate surf and conditions, and a single red flag represents high surf and currents. A double red flag indicates the presence of dangerous rip currents and signifies that the waters are closed to the public. A purple flag warns of dangerous marine life.