Gulf Shores, AL. - (GSN) - The Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office rescued two teenagers after they were caught in a strong current. The incident occurred near Dune Drive in Fort Morgan.

Deputies said the teens were on a float that drifted offshore. The sheriff’s office said the deputies used new technology to rescue the teens.

“Deputies deployed a recently acquired USAFE remote-controlled rescue device,” the department stated. “This allowed them to reach the individuals quickly and safely, pulling them back to shore without deputies having to enter the water. This technology is a major step forward in beach safety.”

The USAFE device increases rescue speed while keeping first responders safe.

Baldwin County uses a flag system to warn beachgoers of current conditions. On Saturday, the county was flying yellow flags, signaling a medium hazard. However, officials warn currents can be dangerous even in ideal conditions.

If caught in a rip current, the Baldwin County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) offers the following tips:

• Remain calm. Fighting the rip current can exhaust you. 
• Escape the current by swimming parallel to the shoreline. When free of the current, swim at an angle—away from the current—toward shore. 
• If unable to escape by swimming, float, or tread water. When the current weakens, swim at an angle away from the current toward the shore.
• If at any time you feel you will be unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself: face the shore, call, or wave for help. To help someone else caught in a rip current, seek help from a lifeguard. If a lifeguard is not present, yell instructions on how to escape or throw the victim something that floats. Call 911 for further assistance.