Swift water rescue teams getting ready around state of Georgia

'Divide and conquer': Rescuers prepare ahead of Helene

The Gwinnett County Fire and EMS' swift water rescue teams are stationing themselves across the country as Hurricane Helene is expected to dump heavy rains overnight, causing widespread flooding.

GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. - As Hurricane Helene nears, local fire departments in Gwinnett County are preparing for the possibility of swift water rescues. The storm is expected to bring record-breaking rainfall to the metro Atlanta area, and emergency crews are gearing up for the worst.

"We've experienced flooding over the years in Gwinett County. So having a team that's ready to deploy is essential to success during these storms," said Captain Ryan McGiboney with Gwinnett County Fire and EMS.

Gwinnett County, known for its vulnerability to flooding, is taking no chances. Firefighters have already prepped rescue boats, positioning them in flood-prone areas across the county, including Buford near the Mall of Georgia. Teams are ready to respond to emergencies, with resources spread strategically between the northern and southern parts of the county, particularly near major tributaries.

"We've taken our swift water rescue teams as well as our technical rescue teams and dividing and conquering. Spreading resources to the north end of the county and south end. Closer to those tributaries," Cpt. McGiboney said. "We’ve placed boats in areas where we’ve seen flooding in the past, so we can respond quickly."

Swift water rescue teams getting ready

Swift water rescue teams are getting ready in the state of Georgia as Hurricane Helene approaches.

"Rivers, that's the obvious hazard but we are also concerned for the tributaries and creeks that fill up and not accustomed to handling the water we will see. That's where the flooding takes place," McGiboney added.

Officials urge residents to stay indoors and avoid driving through standing or moving water. "The best place to be is at home," they emphasize. "Never attempt to drive through flooded areas."

Gwinnett County leaders have been meeting and planning for days to ensure they are ready to handle whatever the storm brings. Other metro counties, including DeKalb and Atlanta, are also prepared for the incoming storm.

"That is the key to survival. Just as we are preparing now. The community should be preparing. That means going into the phones and making sure community alerts are activated and stocking up on household essentials," McGiboney said.

He had one last warning for those who think the storm might be fun and games.

"Don't swim, walk through or attempt to drive through floodwaters," he said.