John and Lori Yaboni, Denver Gammons, Carolyn Veazey,
Barry Varian, and A.G. Sherman with new 911 emergency dock signs
The Lake Nottely Improvement Association has joined with the Department of Natural Resources and the Union County Sheriff's Department as it introduces an Emergency 911 Dock Identification program. UC Commissioner Lamar Paris has offered his full support of the program.
DNR Lake Patrol Officer, Kevin Dyer, suggested the non-mandatory program after witnessing the devastating effects of a tornado which destroyed 54 homes and claimed two lives at Lake Burton, 25 miles east of Blairsville. Dyers stated, "The 10 pm tornado cut all power and road access to victims; our only means of rescue was from lakeside. I am not that familiar with Lake Burton, so the signs were crucial to my rescue efforts and to patrolling the lake in the following days. These new 6"x24" green and white reflective dock signs will prove to be invaluable for emergency crews."
The Lake Burton Homeownwers' Association had recently introduced the sign program to their membership and over 75% of the 800-plus lake property owners had purchased and attached the 911 signs to their docks or boat houses prior to the tornado . LNIA will provide the 911 signs at cost ($25.00), no tax funds will be involved. To purchase a sign contact Barry Varian, 706-897-2018, or mail in application and check.
The 911 locators will assist not only the DNR, but the Union County Sheriff's Department's new water rescue unit. Both entities can better co-ordinate with the UCSD's Road GPS system in identifying crime/rescue locations. In addition, locations for on-lake accidents or other situations can be more easily reported by witnesses or victims and can be responed to more quickly.
The LNIA invites the public, lake property owners and users, businesses and anyone interested in bettering Lake Nottely to the benefit of the local community to join the association. Contact Lynn Varian, 706-897-5669.
Comments(0)