Alabama Launches First Government Shark Alert System

New geofencing technology aims to keep beachgoers safe along the Gulf Coast

Apr. 11, 2026 at 3:33pm

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An extremely abstract, out-of-focus photograph in warm, hazy tones depicting the blurred silhouettes of people swimming and playing in the ocean, conveying the serene, dreamlike atmosphere of a day at the beach.The new shark alert system aims to enhance beach safety without disrupting the relaxed, carefree atmosphere that draws visitors to the Gulf Coast.Gulf Shores Today

In response to a recent shark attack incident, the state of Alabama has launched the nation's first government-issued shark alert system to warn beachgoers of potential shark sightings and activity along the Gulf Coast. The system, named after attack survivor Lulu Gribbin, uses geofencing technology to automatically send notifications to mobile devices within a designated coastal area.

Why it matters

The new shark alert system is an important public safety measure, as shark encounters have been on the rise in recent years along the Gulf Coast. By providing real-time warnings, the system aims to reduce the risk of future attacks and give beachgoers the information they need to make informed decisions about entering the water.

The details

The Lulu Gribbin Shark Alert System went live this past Monday, covering the coastal areas of Baldwin County (from Gulf Shores to Orange Beach) and Mobile County (from the Eastern Shore to the Mississippi state line). The alerts are triggered by a tight geofencing system that only activates within the designated beach zones, avoiding false alarms inland. The system supplements the existing beach flag warning system that indicates dangerous conditions or the presence of deadly sea creatures.

  • In June 2024, Lulu Gribbin was attacked by a bull shark while swimming off the Florida coast.
  • Since her recovery, Gribbin has been advocating for improved shark warning systems in coastal communities.
  • The Lulu Gribbin Shark Alert System went live on the Alabama Gulf Coast this past Monday.

The players

Lulu Gribbin

A shark attack survivor who has been pressing coastal communities to implement better warning systems.

Lulu Gribbin Shark Alert System

The nation's first government-issued shark alert system, launched in Alabama's coastal counties to automatically notify beachgoers of potential shark activity.

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What they’re saying

“Since that time, and as her recovery has progressed, Lulu and her foundation have been pressing coastal communities to do more about warning swimmers and bathers about the presence of sharks.”

— Bruce Mikells, Author

What’s next

The Lulu Gribbin Shark Alert System will continue to be monitored and evaluated as a potential model for other Gulf Coast states to implement similar public safety measures.

The takeaway

The launch of Alabama's new shark alert system represents an important step forward in protecting beachgoers and raising awareness about the increasing presence of sharks along the Gulf Coast. By leveraging geofencing technology, the system aims to provide timely and targeted notifications to help keep swimmers and bathers safe.