Orange Beach, Ala. - (OBA) - Memorial Day weekend is a time of remembrance, celebration, and, for many, a much-anticipated beach getaway. This year, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is taking significant steps to ensure the safety of all beach goers at Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.

ALEA's Aviation Unit to the Rescue:

The ALEA's Aviation Unit will station a Bell 407 helicopter at the Gulf State Park Pavilion during the busy Memorial Day weekend, from May 26-29. This strategic positioning is to assist the Orange Beach and Gulf Shores Fire Departments with any necessary rapid response water rescues. The partnership between ALEA and the local fire departments is a testament to the commitment to keeping all beach goers safe during the holiday weekend.

Historical Context and Recent Developments:

Historically, ALEA has been proactive in ensuring safety during the Memorial Day weekend. In 2022, ALEA kicked off its '101 Days of Safety' campaign during the Memorial Day weekend, emphasizing safety throughout the summer. The Aviation Unit has been instrumental in this endeavor, lending its services to the fire departments in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach to patrol the shorelines.

Last year, ALEA also beefed up marine patrols for the Memorial Day weekend, with extra marine troopers out on Alabama's waters. The official Memorial Day travel period begins at 12:01 a.m. Friday and ends at midnight Monday, with troopers on the roads and waterways ensuring safety.

In a trial period, ALEA's Aviation Unit joined with Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, rescuing 38 people over Memorial Day weekend. This successful collaboration led to plans for expanding the use of ALEA helicopters in beach rescues.

Safety First:

While the beach is a place for fun and relaxation, ALEA urges vacationers to be careful in the water during the Memorial Day weekend. The agency's efforts, including the deployment of the Aviation Unit and marine patrols, are aimed at preventing accidents and responding rapidly to any emergencies.

Orange Beach and Gulf Shores are grateful for ALEA's partnership and the additional safety measures being implemented. As we commemorate Memorial Day, let's also remember to prioritize safety and look out for each other. Enjoy the beach, but always keep safety in mind.