For Non-Emergency Law Enforcement AssistanceA non-emergency is an event that does not pose a direct threat to the health and safety of you and others people. Examples of when to call the non-emergency line are when you see a property crime (car break-ins, vandalism) suspicious activity or a threat to the park's resources (digging, metal detecting). For EmergenciesAn emergency is an event which represents a direct threat to the health and safety of visitors or employees. Example of when to dial 911 are for missing person, fire, physical altercation, or injury. Loading weather forecast... Safety On The WaterFloating or swimming in the Chattahoochee River puts you in an environment that is totally different than the environment that we live in everyday. Therefore special caution needs to be taken by every visitor while on or in the river. A U.S. Coast Guard approved Personal Flotation Device (PFD) is Required To Be Worn if you are boating, tube floating, or wading in river areas between
On all other river sections in the park, you must have a wearable, appropriately sized; U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD on board all watercraft, including float tubes and air mattresses for each person. All children under the age of 13 MUST WEAR a U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD when a watercraft is underway. Water released from Buford Dam comes from the bottom of Lake Sidney Lanier and is approximately 50 degrees Fahrenheit. This cold water is great for trout, but dangerous for you. Beware of Hypothermia which is the severe lowering of the body's temperature. When exposed to these low temperatures, exhaustion or unconsciousness can occur in less than 30 minutes. If you fall into this cold water, get out quickly and warm yourself. Hypothermia can occur even in the warmest summer months.
Drinking WaterBring fresh drinking water and non-perishable food or snacks when visiting the park. Drink and eat periodically to avoid dehydration and keep your energy levels high. DO NOT drink water from the river as harmful levels of bacteria may be present! DivingNever dive or jump in the river. There are dangers in the form of submerged rocks, murky water, strong currents, and fluctuating water levels that can cause serious injury. Remember if you do get injured while in the park it may take several hours before you get help! LostKnow where you plan to visit while in the park and let others know your plans. While on the river remember that Paces Mill is the last take-out in the park. It is located a short distance downstream from the I-75 Highway underpass on the west side of the river. While hiking it's a good idea to carry a paper map and compass with you and learn how to use them. Your cell phone may not have service in some areas and if the battery dies it may be totally worthless. InsectsThe Zika virus is a viral disease transmitted to people by infected mosquitoes (Aedes species, a non-native species introduced by humans). Visit the National Park Service Zika Virus page to learn about the virus and how it impacts our visitors. |
Last updated: May 17, 2022