Gwinnett Fire Rescues 5 from Yellow River, 4 of Them Children

Gwinnett Fire and Emergency Services reported the rescue Thursday afternoon of five people in the Yellow river in Snellville, four of them children.

According to a press release, fire fighters found a total of five people in distress with three holding onto the bridge support column and two others further down the river past the bridge. GCFER spokesman Lt. Colin Rhoden reported that the victims, in three rafts were trying to exit the river before the bridge because of the rapid water conditions south of the bridge. The rafts got caught on rocks in the river and caused two of the victims to continue over the rocks and into some rough water. 

"Firefighters quickly assessed the scene, located the victims, and assisted the three who were by the bridge support to the bank of the river.  The other two victims were rescued by crew members throwing rescue rope from throw bags and towing them in." Rhoden said in the release.

In total, one adult and four children were rescued from the Yellow River by Gwinnett County first responders. There were minor injuries including abrasions to some of the victims and all were released at the scene. Rhoden said there were no rescuer injuries reported.
 
Members who particiapted in the rescue were Swift Water Rescue certified and trained. 

"When these members respond to water emergencies they are trained to wear PFDs (Personal Flotation  Devices) aka life vests, for safety," Rhoden said. "It was reported that none of those rescued were found wearing life vests.  Gwinnett County officials strongly suggest always wearing  a life vest near moving water, know the waters where you will be around, follow all water safety rules, make a plan and tell someone your plan and where you will be."