Gulf Swimming Advisory Lifted

On Friday, the Alabama Dept. of Public Health lifted a swimming advisory related to the Gulf of Mexico oil spill, allowing swimmers to enjoy the now emerald-green water for the first time in more than 80 days. Health department officials say they lifted the advisory because little or no oil has impacted Baldwin County's beaches in at least three weeks.

In Gulf Shores, red flags were lowered Friday and replaced with yellow flags, indicating the water is open but for swimmers to use caution. Health department officials say there could still be oil right offshore and advise swimmers to not make contact with the pollution.

Orange Beach city leaders have decided to keep red flags up in their community. Mayor Tony Kennon says there's still oil sheen out in the Gulf, and wants to make sure swimmers are completely protected.