Inner-Tubing Family Rescued On The Chattahoochee River

PEACHTREE CORNERS, GA — A family inner-tubing on the Chattahoochee River was rescued by firefighters Monday after the father began feeling ill.

Gwinnett Fire & Emergency Services, along with John's Creek firefighters, responded at 6:59 p.m. to a report of a family stranded in the river between Medlock Bridge and East Jones Bridge.

Five people — three adults and two children — were floating down the river on tethered inner tubes when the father started feeling weak and dizzy, according to Gwinnett Fire. They became stranded and called 911.

A swiftwater rescue team responded. After boats were deployed in the river for a search, the family was spotted from a distance. A John's Creek rescue boat made it to the group and the father was assisted to shore at Medlock Bridge Park, where paramedics were waiting.

The other four family members were escorted to a residential street by Gwinnett firefighters that were on the riverbank. They were not complaining of any injuries and were taken back to East Jones Bridge Park.

The family had reportedly been on the river for several hours and had not yet made it to their destination at East Jones Bridge Park when the father became ill.

"Rivergoers are encouraged to stay safe and to plan their trip down the river," said Gwinnett Fire Capt. Tommy Rutledge. "Always wear a life-jacket and have a way to call for help if needed. Stay alert to your surroundings and know where you are on the river at all times."

Photo courtesy Gwinnett Fire & Emergency Services