Johns Creek Fire Department Rolls Out New Swiftwater Rescue Boat

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The Johns Creek Fire Department recently deployed a new tool to aid in its response to emergencies on the Chattahoochee River.

The new swiftwater rescue boat, which has been in service since May 22, has the following capabilities:

• 200 horse power jet drive motor.
• Reinforced aluminum hull with a ½” thick Ultra-High Molecular Weight polyethylene coating covering the complete bottom and half up the sides of the boat to protect from rocks/debris in the river.
• Advanced Sonar unit with side scan imaging capabilities for victim search and recovery (this unit also is equipped with a state of the art GPS unit).
• Removable hoist designed to lift injury victims from the water into the boat while maintaining spinal immobilization.
• The boat will operate in 4’’ of water on plane (very shallow draft).
• The boat is specifically designed and built for the agency’s type of river operations and has a forward positioned helm for better pilot visibility.
• This boat is equipped with a robust lighting package for night and fog operations.

The department made note of the new vessel on its Facebook page. Johns Creek fire said it responds to dozens of emergencies on the river each year. They’ve also trained 47 members of the department to become official swiftwater technicians.

• RELATED: Boaters Safe After Canoe Capsizes in Chattahoochee

While it does have a new boat to help rescue victims who find themselves in emergencies on the Chattahoochee, the fire department continues to urge residents to be mindful of the schedule the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers uses to release water from Lake Lanier.

Residents can call 770-945-1466 to learn when releases are scheduled.

“It’s also a good idea to call just before entering the river,” the department said on its Facebook page. “Be aware of the time and head for the shore when the release is scheduled. Even though it may take a while for the water to get to you, don’t wait.”

Other tips:

• Be aware of the time and head for the shore when the release is scheduled. Even though it may take a while for the water to get to you, don’t wait.
  
• Always wear a flotation device.
  
• Keep an eye on the water level - note the water level on a solid fixture, such as a bridge support, and check it periodically. If the water level has risen, it’s time to get out!
  
• Just because you’re in a boat, don’t assume you’re safe. People have drowned after their boat struck rocks broadside and flipped.
  
• Make sure someone knows where you are. If you get into trouble, someone can find you and alert authorities.
  
• Pay attention to where you are - there are mile-markers along the river. If you have to make an emergency call, you can tell authorities where to find you.

Check out the fire department’s water safety video below.

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Photo credits: Johns Creek Fire Department