During the summer, the Johns Creek Fire Department Swift Water Rescue Team responds several times a month to emergency calls to rescue people from the frigid, rushing water of the river. In some cases, they’re asked to help recover bodies.
During a release, the Chattahoochee can rise as much as 11 feet in minutes. The water can be as cold as 47 degrees, enough to bring on hypothermia and hamper efforts to swim to shore.
The Army Corps of Engineers releases water from Buford Dam during weekday afternoons unless there are unusual downstream water demands or especially heavy rains. In those situations, unscheduled water releases can come in the morning and on weekends.
The Corps gives notice, but the announcements vary from a few minutes to a few hours before the releases. People can call 770-945-1466, 855-DAM-FLOW or listen to 1610AM. River users may also view the daily schedule for releases online (select the Buford Dam / Lake Sidney Lanier from the dropdown menu).
Four warning sirens are placed between Buford Dam and State Road 20. Releases occur within minutes after the sirens stop.
River Safety Tips
For more information, watch the JC Swift Water Rescue Team’s Water Safety Video, review the US Army Corps of Engineers safety tips, or download the attached Chattahoochee Water Safety flyer (PDF).
