TVA Installs Warning Systems at Watts Bar and Fort Loudoun
December 6, 2004
TVA has installed new safety warning systems at Watts Bar and Fort Loudoun dams to help improve public safety during water releases from the dams.
The warning systems include signs, warning horns and strobe lights that warn the public of water discharges through the dam and of rapidly rising water downstream from the dam. The warning system at Fort Loudoun is operating, and the Watts Bar warning system will be activated on Tuesday, Dec. 7.
“The horns and strobe lights will automatically be activated prior to water level changes as a safety warning to the public,” said TVA Senior Vice President of River Operations Janet Herrin. “When the horns and strobe lights are activated, boaters and the public should quickly move to safe areas.”
Before TVA begins generating power and releasing water from the dams, two warning horns and two strobe lights mounted on a hand rail on the promenade deck above the discharge area will be activated.
Before spilling from the dams occur, four strobe lights and two warning horns mounted near an electronic message sign on both sides of the dam will be activated. Message boards will display information that water will be spilled soon.
TVA is the nation’s largest public power provider and is completely selffinanced. TVA provides power to large industries and 158 power distributors that serve approximately 8.5 million consumers in seven southeastern states. TVA also manages the Tennessee River and its tributaries to provide multiple benefits, including flood control, navigation, water quality, water supply and recreation.
Media Contact:
Michelle Sherrard
TVA News Bureau, Knoxville, (865) 632-6000
