Firefighters Rescue Family from Yellow River

According to a press release from spokesman Lieutenant Colin S. Rhoden, Gwinnett Fire Rescue responded to a call at Yellow River at 2:39 p.m.  

Firefighters arrived to Yellow River at the Annistown Road Bridge and found five people -- one adult and four children -- in distress.  Three were holding onto the bridge support column while two others were farther down the river.

The victims were attempting to exit the river, according to Rhoden's report, because of the rapid water conditions south of the bridge. Three rafts got caught on rocks in the river and caused two of the victims to continue over the rocks and into rough water. 

Firefighters 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 rope from throw bags and towing them in.

There were minor injuries including abrasions to some of the victims, but all were released at the scene. There were no other injuries reported.

Although required by law, none of those rescued were wearing life vests.  

"Gwinnett County officials strongly suggest always wearing  a life vest near moving water," Rhoden said in the report.  "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."