A body believed to be that of a missing swimmer was located in the Perdido Pass area of Orange Beach in the early morning of Aug. 5.

Local rescuers are always thinking about and promoting safe swimming practices in open water, but they only become more relevant when something tragic occurs. According to Melvin Shepard, chief of staff for Gulf Shores Fire & Rescue, the best way for swimmers to stay safe is to know their swimming ability and swim near lifeguards.

"I worked for Orange Beach for 18 years and now for Gulf Shores, and I would urge swimmer to not overestimate their swimming ability, and ask lifeguards questions," Shepard said. "If you know you are a weak swimmer, use extreme caution. In open bodies of water, you have the current working against you, waves, topography of the bottom, and if you're not a strong swimmer the outcome can be deadly."

Shepard said that in addition to Perdido Pass in Orange Beach, Little Lagoon Pass under the Lee Callaway Bridge in Gulf Shores is another area that visitors should be cautious of.

"It is a popular area for residents to go, but the tides are strong going out, and there is a current going through a very narrow channel, which can be very dangerous," Shepard said. "You could be on a sandbar one minute and next thing you know the water is over your head."

Shepard said that contrary to what many may think, most drownings occur on moderate days with waist high waves and long shore currents. He also explained that while many swimmers think using flotation devices in the open water is safe, it can actually pose extreme danger.

"The winds coming from offshore can easily push people out quickly, and in turn they may jump off and try to swim despite their ability," Shepard said. "The best thing to do if that happens is to wave your hands and call for help, let the help come to you.

"These places are great for laying out and getting sun, but if you are going to swim do it in front of the lifeguard tower or parking area."