MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WDNews) —Alabama’s new shark alert system, known as Lulu’s Law, is now in effect, providing beachgoers with another layer of safety during the busy summer season.
The law was inspired by Lulu Gribbin, an Alabama teenager who survived a shark attack while vacationing along the Gulf Coast in 2024. Following her recovery, Gribbin advocated for a system that would quickly notify the public when a confirmed shark attack occurs.
Under Lulu’s Law, emergency alerts can now be sent to mobile phones and first responders after a confirmed unprovoked shark attack near Alabama’s coastline. The alerts are intended to give swimmers, boaters and beach visitors timely information so they can leave the water and avoid potentially dangerous conditions.
Officials say the system is designed to improve public safety while helping prevent additional incidents. The alerts will only be issued following a confirmed unprovoked shark attack and will not be used for routine shark sightings.
For many families in the Wiregrass, Alabama’s Gulf Coast remains a favorite vacation destination throughout the summer. The new alert system provides another tool to help visitors stay informed while enjoying the beach.
State leaders hope Lulu’s Law will improve emergency communication and help protect both Alabama residents and visitors spending time along the Gulf Coast.
The effort has also expanded nationally. A federal version of Lulu’s Law has passed Congress and directs the Federal Communications Commission to allow Wireless Emergency Alerts to be used for shark attacks across the country, creating the potential for similar warning systems in coastal communities nationwide.
